Baltimore, MD — Energy modeling and commissioning experts Lilker EMO Energy Solutions played a key role in achieving LEED Platinum for The Center for Parks & People at Auchentoroly Terrace in Baltimore City. The project, designed by Ziger/Snead Architects and built by Lewis Contractors, is only the second in Baltimore to earn the highest rating possible from the U.S. Green Building Council. The Center comprises a nine-acre triangular piece of property in Baltimore’s Druid Hill Park and is home to the Parks & People Foundation, an organization founded in 1984 by four-time Baltimore Mayor William Donald Schaefer to improve the environmental, physical and social health of the city. The project scope included development of a network of public walking paths and gardens, renovation of a historic former Superintendent’s House on the site, and construction of a new 10,000 s/f headquarters and modular Green Workforce Development Center.Sustainable design practices and innovative methods were employed throughout the campus, including storm water management techniques, a green roof terrace, provision of rainwater collection cisterns, geothermal well storage systems, solar photovoltaics, use of reclaimed and rapidly renewable finish materials and a highly efficient building envelope using structural insulated panels (SIPs). Goats were brought in to clear invasive growth in an environmentally safe manner.
Lilker EMO Energy Solutions performed a whole building energy model simulation, comprehensive energy analysis and assessment of building systems and configuration for the Foundation’s headquarters. Implementing a LEED fundamental and enhanced commissioning process, Lilker EMO ensured that all state-of-the-art features, building systems and envelope were installed per design specifications and are operating properly to achieve energy-savings goals.In its own “backyard,” Lilker EMO recently achieved LEED EBOM-2009 (Existing Buildings: Operations and Management) Silver Certification for the facility housing its offices at 3130 Fairview Dr. in Falls Church, VA, as well the building across the street at 3141 Fairview Dr. Both properties are owned by Brandywine Realty Trust. With Lilker EMO’s guidance, Brandywine incorporated green cleaning protocols, energy and water efficiency upgrades, enhanced recycling and waste management, and other strategies to achieve 52 LEED credits and deliver healthy and efficient buildings to its tenants and visitors.