WWU Kaiser Borsari Hall

Western Washington University (WWU) is committed to decarbonization. The University is creating the State’s first publicly funded zero-energy academic building on a university campus, Kaiser Borsari Hall. The new mass timber Electrical Engineering (EE) and Computer Science (CS) facility will inspire the next generation of climate problem-solvers through its intentional learning lab approach and biophilic design. Even from the exterior featuring exposed Glulam columns, a sky bridge connecting to the WWU Communications Facility to maximize collaboration, and the large rooftop photovoltaic (PV) array capturing energy for the building’s operations, the facility clearly demonstrates this commitment. Inside, the four (4) story building co-locates the electrical engineering, computer science, and energy science and technology programs in new state-of-the-art teaching spaces, experiential learning environments, teaching labs, research labs, and active learning classrooms. These spaces were designed to be physically and culturally accessible to support people with diverse abilities and learning styles.

Design decisions were all determined with the aim to inspire students through a “living laboratory” approach where they can study hands-on what is possible in high-performance design and building science. The team worked closely with WWU during design to analyze systems costs and evaluate options for each building component to maintain International Living Future Insititute (ILFI) Zero Carbon and Zero Energy Certification aspirations and budget without reducing educational program space. The result is a building that will surpass LEED standards for energy use, carbon reduction, and other environmental indicators. The exposed mass timber structure visible throughout the building firmly grounds the space in the forest surrounding the building and the WWU campus. This sustainably harvested wood not only looks beautiful but also stores carbon, reducing the building’s embodied carbon footprint. Additionally, the team is maximizing the advantages of mass timber construction by prefabricating the Glulam beams and columns and Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) decks offsite for seamless assembly at the project site.

This commitment to sustainability remains prevalent through construction as the team implements the Contractor’s Commitment guidelines for green building practices. Criteria include reducing equipment carbon emissions, ensuring on-site workers’ wellness, waste diversion, preventing water pollution, and selecting healthy and sustainable building materials. All these efforts aim to reduce the environmental impact of this new facility from construction through operation.