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The Frontier Project<a href="http://www.frontierproject.com/" target="_blank">The Frontier Project</a> is an incredible eco building located in Rancho Cucamonga in Southern California that serves as a headquarters for the educational non-profit under the same name. The LEED platinum building is dedicated to educating residents, commercial builders, and sustainability advocates about the latest methods and technologies in water conservation, energy efficiency, and site conservation. Designed by <a href="http://hmcarchitects.com/" target="_blank">HMC Architects</a> and completed in October 2009, The Frontier Project has received numerous honors including an <a href="http://inhabitat.com/2010/07/01/las-40th-annual-architecture-awards-celebrate-sustainable-designs/" target="_blank">Architecture Award from the LA Business Council</a>.1
The Frontier Project-2The Frontier Project is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the community on sustainable building strategies and resource conservation. The organization was founded by the Cucamonga Valley Water District.2
The Frontier Project-8The building showcases sustainable technologies and building strategies for the area residents and building contractors. Tours are available during the week to learn about the building.3
The Frontier Project-9Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) are used to provide both structure and insulation for the building, which makes the most of Southern California's warm desert climate.4
The Frontier Project-7The roof features three cooling systems: 1) A photovoltaic array that soaks up the sun's energy and converts it into electricity. 2) A green roof that insulates the building and infiltrates rainwater. 3) A cool roof surface that reflects sunlight.5
The Frontier Project-3Anyone can tour the 14,000 sq ft building during the day to learn more about sustainable building technologies and see exhibitions and demonstrations.6
The Frontier Project-5An eco-friendly kitchen features green finishes like flooring, cabinets and counter tops as well as energy-efficient appliances.7
The Frontier Project-4A courtyard on the north east side of the building provides a sheltered space for people to enjoy, and large north-facing windows bring tons of daylight into the space.8
The Frontier Project-10The building also features a conference room for up to 80 people to attend workshops, classes, and seminars. An office workspace for up to 15 employees demonstrates the "office of the future" in a bright, open workspace.9
The Frontier Project-11A cool tower and solar chimneys provide natural ventilation and cooling.10
The Frontier Project-12Outside, a native and drought tolerant landscape features the best in sustainable landscaping. Rainwater is collected and stored.11
The Frontier Project-13HMC Architects are responsible for the design of the building.12
The Frontier Project-14The project received a Citation Award from the AIA Inland California Chapter, an award from the LA Business Council and Leadership Award from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Inland Empire Chapter for Education and Advocacy, Sustainable Design Practices.13
The Frontier Project-15The building was completed in October of 2009 and received its LEED Platinum certification in May 2010.14
