LEED certified expansion of Kresge College in Santa Cruz
Nestled within the enchanting redwood forest along the picturesque ridges and ravines of northern California, the Kresge College at the University of California, Santa Cruz, stands as a testament to a daring experiment in student-driven education. Established in 1971, the original campus, envisioned by architects Charles Moore and William Turnbull, resembled a vibrant "hill town" that seamlessly blended into the natural surroundings. This innovative design fostered a lively village atmosphere within the forest, complete with a meandering pedestrian street. It provided students with an immersive environment to embody Kresge's foundational principles of participatory democracy, encouraging exploration of novel ways of living and learning.
Visit a reference projectSolution
Natural ventilation , Smoke Ventilation
Location
Santa Cruz, CA
Sector
Education
Project Type
New build
A harmonious rejuvenation
Embarking on an ambitious journey to revitalize the essence of Kresge College, the redevelopment and renovation initiative spanned eight acres of the captivating redwood forest. Guided by the creative prowess of Studio Gang and TEF Design, with engineering expertise provided by Magnusson Klemencic Associates, this transformative project reached its completion in 2019, targeting a LEED Silver certification while paying homage to Charles Moore. This comprehensive undertaking was driven by a commitment to rejuvenate Kresge College as a dynamic living and learning community. At its core, the project aimed to augment on-campus student housing capacity and address key academic priorities identified across the University. The scope of the endeavour encompassed the complete replacement of underground utilities, thoughtful site enhancements, and the meticulous renovation of several existing buildings. The jewel in the crown of this redevelopment initiative was the introduction of new structures. Among them, a cutting-edge 35,400-square-foot Academic Building (ACAD) now stands proudly, equipped with a 600-seat lecture hall, classrooms, faculty offices, and academic administration spaces. This state-of-the-art facility not only elevates the learning experience but also embodies the project's commitment to academic excellence. Adding to the allure, three residential buildings, totalling 96,000 square feet, were introduced as part of the project. These modern living spaces house more than 300 students across four full floors, showcasing a harmonious blend of energy efficient and contemporary design.
Fresh learning spaces
In the pursuit of optimal indoor air quality and a commitment to energy efficient building practices, the implementation of WindowMaster's window automation technology has played a pivotal role in two distinct structures within the redevelopment project. Sales Director Peter Kater explains: “Within the ACAD building, the utilization of window automation has been strategic and multifaceted. The integration of 29 awning windows, powered by WMU 831 UL actuators and WCC 310/320 Plus UL MotorControl panels, exemplifies a sophisticated approach to smoke and heat control. Positioned at the top window sections, these automated units function as a key component of the building's safety strategy. WindowMaster’s wind and rain sensor, in conjunction with the Building Management System, orchestrates natural ventilation and smoke exhaust through BACnet communication.” Beyond safety considerations, the remaining window sections facilitate the influx of fresh outside air into the various learning spaces. Adding a layer of control, the facilities team holds the capability to manage the automated windows discreetly through key switches strategically placed to ensure limited access for students.
“WindowMaster's actuators are integrated into ACR Glazing's Wausau Zero Sightline window. Thanks to the minimised sill space, the edges of the window are less visible, which is where window automation can really make a difference.”
Peter Kater
Sales Director, North America
ADA complying ventilation strategy
In the residential building called RNEW, a focus on inclusivity and comfort is achieved through automated windows along the main hallways. Complying with the American Disabilities Act (ADA), these windows are designed to provide day comfort ventilation to the spaces. The use of WMX 814 UL actuators on awning and casement windows ensures operational accessibility for all students. Each casement window boasts two units of actuators, while the awning windows utilize one unit of WMX 814 UL per window. The entire system is seamlessly controlled by WCC 310/320 Plus UL Motor Control panels, offering a user-friendly interface through rocker switches. This approach not only enhances the overall ventilation strategy but also aligns with the project's commitment to creating inclusive and comfortable indoor environments for all occupants.
Intelligent control of windows: MotorLink®
MotorLink® is a communication technology that enables 2-way control and feedback between window actuators and the Building Management System via the MotorController. All WindowMaster control systems are MotorLink® capable with many of our actuators. Click below to learn more and see related products.
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A vibrant hub for living and learning
In the transformative redevelopment of Kresge College, the collaboration between innovative architects, engineers, and advanced technologies has reshaped the educational landscape. The collaboration between Studio Gang, TEF Design, Magnusson Klemencic Associates, and WindowMaster has not only revitalized the architectural footprint but has also embraced energy efficient practices and enhanced indoor environments. Due to the strategic implementation of WindowMaster's window automation solutions, the buildings now stand as a testament to the fusion of safety, accessibility, and environmental consciousness. The outcome is a reinvigorated Kresge College that not only pays tribute to its architectural legacy but also positions itself as a vibrant hub for living and learning amid the captivating redwood forest.
