Facilities Design and Construction

The Courtyard at Given

The Courtyard at Given - Completed Project

Schedule: Completed July 2009
Project Manager: Todd Merchant
Architect: Black River Design Architects
Construction Manager: Engelberth Construction, Inc.

LEED Gold Seal The Courtyard at Given project added 31,000 gross square footage to the College of Medicine Complex, filling the increased need for office and support space. The project included the construction of a four story structure within the existing courtyard that formerly housed the Dana Medical Library. This enabled faculty and staff members of the College of Medicine to be located within close proximity to the main University of Vermont Campus and Fletcher Allen Health Care Facility.

The Courtyard at Given has received a GOLD Level of Certification in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) established by the U.S. Green Building Council.

Given Courtyard LEED Certificate

LEED facts and energy saving features include:

A major design focus was to draw natural light in from the glass roof covering the Courtyard. This was achieved by dividing the building into two pods connected by walkways and a large open stair reflecting light down through the volume of space between the two buildings into the interior offices and down to the ground level.
The mechanical system is based upon an under floor air distribution system where the friction loss of the air distribution system is minimized. This HVAC system method reduces energy use by 4%.
An enthalpy wheel type energy recovery ventilator controlled from carbon dioxide sensors in the occupied spaces reduces energy consumption through moisture exchange and heat between the exhaust air and outdoor air.
Plumbing fixtures are all low volume water use type fixtures.
A system design of 0.6 watts/s.f. and day light control of the atrium light fixtures achieves a high level of energy reduction.
Low VOC paints, coatings and finishes, and green label plus carpets were implemented on this project preserving a healthy work environment for a fully occupied building during the construction period.