Center for Urban Waters building cutaway focus on windows

LEED credit symbol: indoor environmental qualitySunny perspective: views and daylight

Daylighting reduces energy consumption by using windows and reflective surfaces to light the facility. Because the building is long and narrow, natural light illuminates much of the facility. Open areas are equipped with daylight sensors that automatically adjust light levels based on the amount of natural light. Light shelves are used in open office areas to bring natural light deeper into the building. These shelves, placed above eye level near the windows, are made of reflective materials. They reflect daylight onto the ceiling, sending light further into the space. The building’s design gives most occupants views of the outside; more than 90% of regularly occupied spaces have views.

light shelves
Light shelves convey daylight further into work areas.
Tacoma skyline
The building’s shape expands viewing opportunities for occupants.
Mt. Rainier
Mount Rainier dominates the view to the south.
building shape
The building’s shape expands viewing opportunities for occupants.
Mt. Rainier
Tacoma’s skyline shines to the west.