SkyLab Architecture’s Wastewater Facility for Portland, Oregon Aims for LEED Gold

<a href="http://www.skylabarchitecture.com" target="_blank">SkyLab Architecture</a> has unveiled plans for the new Columbia Boulevard Wastewater Treatment Support Facility (CBWTSF) in Portland. The 11,490 square foot collaborative office building employs a broad array of sustainable building strategies such as <a href="http://inhabitat.com/green-roof/">green roofs</a>, clerestory windows, natural ventilation, <a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/bioswale/">bioswales</a> and adaptive environments with the aim of achieving a <a href="http://www.leed.net" target="_blank">LEED</a> Gold rating.

The entrance has been regenerated with native and adaptive environmental planting, creating an enjoyable new pubic space with views over the existing pond.

The facility is designed to maximize the environmental implications of the sun's path. It is therefore arranged radially in plan, following the daily east to west path of the sun.

The roof plane undulates in a sawtooth pattern, reminiscent of Industrial Revolution-era factories in England. Clerestory windows bridge the triangular gap ensuring the office space beneath benefits from the natural movement of light and airflow.

The downward plane aids the drainage of the landscaped roof, directing runoff water into a berm. On the South facade bioswales will return stormwater to the Columbia Slough.

The North facing glazed facades are louvered and open-able which allows indirect sunlight in to the work spaces, avoiding glare, and facilitates natural ventilation.

Landscaped common areas are accessible by staff as well as school groups on educational tours; featuring demonstrations of the water treatment strategies.