IIDA Student Sustainable Design Competition

This is a group project designed by Katherine Dabkowski, Huiqin Jiang, Lauren Popish and Bailey Shugart as a school project for General Dynamics located in Tempe Arizona. The space is a frequently used cafeteria in one of the main buildings.

The concept for this design is: This space will be one of relaxation emphasized by the layering of organic forms reminiscent of a topographic map. A modern use of line within structural boundaries contrasts the curvilinear elements. Natural elements will be specified to experience the calming effects of nature while providing a thought-free, adaptive environment.

One of the major goals behind the design of the space was sustainability. The cafeteria is located within the General Dynamics Roosevelt campus, which is a LEED-EB industrial certified facility. Because we have not changed any water systems, water use will continue to be efficient, just like the rest of the building. Lighting throughout the space consists of only compact florescent lighting or LED-lights, both of which have a longer life span than typical incandescent lighting. Waste and different recycling receptacles, including that for aluminum cans, glass bottles, and plastic cutlery, will continue to be utilized along the east wall where the users enter and exit the cafeteria. We have kept the same flooring in the serving area entrance of the space and extended that flooring to the exterior doors. By reusing this material and also reupholstering and reusing the original cafeteria chairs, we are maintaining a good amount of interior non-structural components. Most of the materials and furnishing specified within the space are either made of post-consumer recycled content, recyclable at the end of their life cycle, or both. The bamboo, which is rapidly renewable, is placed on the floor in the raised dining area and on the walls in the lounge. This material, as well as the wood for the banquette and lounge bar stools, is FSC certified. If a different look is requested in the future, flooring materials can be refinished and ceiling resin can be recolored and resurfaced. Tile can be easily removed. The indoor air quality has been improved with no VOC paints, formaldehyde-free materials, and live plants. Two views to the exterior have been provided in this space, one along the west wall and one along the south wall. Outside these windows is more greenery so that users in the cafeteria can eat in enjoyment.