 BNIM Architects is a Midwestern group of architects who have many specialties, but their most unique specialty lies in sustainability. BNIM Architects has been a national leader in sustainable design for nearly three decades. Among the leadership contributions, BNIM Architects are a key contributor to the development of the U.S. Green Building Council. Members of the firm were some of the main voices in authoring the LEED guidelines that have become the standard rating system for sustainable projects today.
The division within the firm for sustainability is called Elements. Elements improves the performance of buildings from the standpoint of energy and environmental performance and human health and productivity. The firm believes that they have a responsibility to see the building industry improve its environmental, economic and social performance to enhance the quality of life in our communities.
One of the major projects of BNIM won an American Institue of Architects (AIA) Award for a Green Project, a prestigious award. This project was for the University of Texas' School of Nursing. The School of Nursing and Student Community Center established benchmarks for healthy buildings, daylighting, an open learning environment, flexibility, durability and reduced operating cost that will make the building pay for itself soon in what it saves.
The building is expected to use 41 percent less energy than a conventional building, however there were a few challenges associated with it. Due to the building's undesirable orientation to the sun, harsh environmental conditions and demanding program requirements, each of the four elevations, the fifth façade and the roof uses unique strategies to accept desired daylight and reject unwanted heat. Three vertical atria, a horizontal atrium, a breezeway and perimeter operable windows provide occupants with natural light and ventilation and connect the building to its site and environment. Underfloor air distribution increases energy efficiency and thermal comfort as well as improves the circulation. This raised floor, as well as demountable partitions, also allows for revisions to the interior design, accommodating changing needs. Building materials were selected to minimize environmental impact. They include reclaimed brick and cypress and recycled-content aluminum panels, structural steel and concrete. Low emissions materials protect indoor air quality so no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are inhaled. Three-fourths of the building's demolition and construction waste was salvaged or recycled. Water-conservation strategies, including rainwater harvesting, waterfree urinals and efficient fixtures amount to a 48 percent reduction in potable water use, compared to a typical calculation. EnviroCitizen.org is impressed with building details like these and hopes that others will pop up with similar characteristics.
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