The Richard and Virginia Holt Center is a new educational facility built as part of the Sultana Education Foundation. The project consisted of the renovation of an existing 4,500 SF 19th century historic building as well as the construction of a new, two-story addition, totaling 8,500 GSF. New spaces included a wet lab, project shop, lecture hall, administrative offices, and a geography classroom.

Sustainability was an important goal for the project team. 34 solar panels on the center’s roof offset 19% of the building’s energy demand, reducing the need to draw electricity from fossil fuel powered electrical plants.

The use of low-flow fixtures helped achieve a 42% water usage reduction, and the installation of native plantings, as well as permeable pavers, helped mitigate the effects of heat islands. A green cleaning program and the utilization of low-VOC finishes help ensure an optimal indoor learning environment for students.

The Foundation also implemented a green building education program, which demonstrates and highlights the sustainable features of the Center.