The Infinity Dimension

Narrative: 

Lessons learned:

 

1. Window shades in large open public spaces should be mechanically operated, despite the additional cost. After occupancy, facilities staff start lowering the shades for security over the weekend. Some teachers also close blinds to “avoid distraction” of students. Once down, users don’t always proactively raise them.

 

2. Do not assume that cutting-edge technologies will be fully understood by building authorities, especially from small jurisdictions. Our greywater system was approved, but questions in the field raised official alarms, requiring re-review during construction. Invest in making sure they understand what you are doing up front.

 

Good surprises:

 

1. The school’s board approved the large photovoltaic array, and rather than lease, they decided to purchase from the schools endowment as a solid financial investment.

 

2. Our good relationship with environmental advocates within the faculty and the facilities meant sustainable strategies could be embedded deeply in the design and develop synergies with the curriculum.