Steinberg Architects achieves New Mexico’s first LEED Gold Certification for new student housing complex at New Mexico State University

Chamisa Village Phase II at NMSU garners the U.S. Green Building Council’s highest level of sustainability

Steinberg Architects, an international design firm, today announced that Chamisa Village Phase II, a 127,000-square-foot residential complex on the campus of New Mexico State University (NMSU), was certified Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold by the U.S. Green Building Council.

Completed in 2011, Chamisa Village Phase II has two- and four- bedroom housing units for 282 students and faculty. The complex creates a new gateway to campus that will contribute to the university’s goal to provide uniquely programmed courtyards and exterior social space for students and faculty.

Since its inception in 1993, the U.S. Green Building Council has promoted the design, construction and operation of buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. Today, the concept of “green building” or sustainable design has been established as a fundamental issue in the building industry.

Former New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson agreed, and in 2006 signed an executive order requiring all future state-funded building projects exceeding more than 15,000 square feet meet LEED Silver standards. Chamisa Village Phase II exceeds this standard, with the following contributing to its LEED Gold certification:

· Chamisa II has recycled insulation.

· The development’s water collection system collects water from the roof of each building and drains it into storage ponds to use in the irrigation systems.

· The surface of the white roof on each building is reflective, reducing heat and aiding in energy efficiency.

· The installation of low-e glazing on all windows, R-19 wall insulation, R-30 roof insulation and high efficacy lighting significantly reduces energy consumption.

Steinberg Architect’s garners state’s first LEED Gold for NMSU housing

“Achieving gold certification was a distinct goal when starting this project,” said Rob Steinberg, president, Steinberg Architects. “We wanted to help the University reach a new level of sustainable design while providing the students and faculty a great place to live, learn and converse. It was really a team effort and a tremendous accomplishment for all involved.”