By Eera Babtiwale, LEED AP BD+C, Environmental Analyst

The Child Development Center at College of the Desert attained 70 LEED points, pushing the project to LEED Gold Certification. This new teaching facility in Palm Desert, Calif. is a state-of-the-art instructional building devoted to the education of childcare professionals for the 21st century. The 10,000-SF Child Development Center houses the college’s Early Childhood Education program, which includes toddler classrooms, an adult learning/observation classroom, faculty offices, a faculty workroom, restrooms and a commercial kitchen.

College of the Desert Child Development Center

The harsh desert climate required a sensitive approach to the design of the building to support a safe, healthy and sustainable learning environment. Passive solar techniques are incorporated throughout the project, and direct desert sun is properly mitigated through the use of deep overhangs. A tight and efficient building envelope prevents heat gains and losses during characteristic desert temperature swings. Skylights allow natural light to penetrate interior learning spaces, and natural ventilation during temperate days is made possible through the use of sliding glass doors that open to the outdoor play area. Low-emitting materials, finishes and furniture systems are specified to uphold the indoor air quality for students and instructors.

Key sustainable features:

• 84% energy savings
• 95% naturally day lit interior spaces
• 95% views to outdoors from learning spaces
• Over 10% recycled content in buildings materials
• Over 10% regional content in buildings materials
• Low emitting materials used throughout the building

Deep overhangs mitigate direct sun