Hylwa Inc., a construction management, and design /build firm located in Meriden teamed up with Commercial Realty Services on the completion of Wachovia Bank's new LEED certified prototype financial center, located at 1030 Elm St. To achieve the silver LEED certification the new 4,000 plus s/f financial center designed by the Samuel Group, incorporates many new "Green" design, materials, and construction practices.
The site was designed to offer the customer easy access to public transportation, bicycle racks, and designated high efficiency vehicle parking. The prudent use of grassed areas, and landscaping that is comprised of flora that is indigenous to the area created a site that requires minimal watering and maintenance.
The building envelope will be 25% more energy efficient compared to previously constructed financial centers. This will be accomplished by the use of Agriboard panels for the roof and wall construction, high performance widows, day-lighting, solar shading, occupancy sensors, programmable thermostats and a computerized building management system.
The Agriboard panels are made of compressed wheat or rice straw sandwiched between an exterior skin of Laminated strand lumber. The panels are constructed of 100% recycled materials and are strong enough to withstand winds in excess of 250 MPH. The panels providing a dynamic insulation value of R25 and air infiltration is 7 times better than traditional construction.
The plumbing fixtures installed in the project will reduce water use by 40% from the calculated baseline for this type of building
The building materials incorporated into the project contain zero to low levels of volatile organic compounds. Almost 80% of the installed project materials, finishes, and furnishings were manufactured from recycled materials these include: acoustical ceiling tiles- 71%, Nysan window shades - 65%, Herman Miller work stations- 79%, lounge chairs-79%, occasional table- 79%, stacking chairs-59%, steelcase goods- 74%, doors-99%.
Eighty-four percent of the construction waste from the project was recycled.
Hylwa Inc., Commercial Realty Services and Wachovia Bank are proud of their commitment to LEED certification for their new financial centers. This certification includes a rigorous third-party commissioning process that offers compelling proof to their clients and the general public that they have achieved their environmental goals and the buildings will perform to the highest standards. *