1 A light shelf, extending roughly three feet out from the window, increases the amount of light reflected into the classroom.
2 Small vents at the base of the window are opened to increase air circulation through the room. By tailoring the design of the school to the local environment, air flow is maintained without the help of fans or other aids.
3 The shallow V-shaped ceilings bounce light down toward the students and cut down on ambient noise. Light from both the south-facing window and the hallway is utilized.
Other Features of This Sustainable School
- In the winter, classrooms are heated with a fan-coil system in the ceiling, which uses less energy than traditional heating systems do.
- Windows are made from high-performance glass to keep heat inside.
- Windows with a southern exposure have tinting on the high-performance glass to keep out glare, while north-facing windows are clear.
