[jtk1519]

First of all, please keep this thread about the technology and architecture and save the political bullshit for the Skybar. I think we're all gown up enough to handle that.

George W. Bush library's blueprints filled with green, following trend of other big public buildings
08:24 AM CDT on Sunday, March 14, 2010
By RANDY LEE LOFTIS / The Dallas Morning News
rloftis@dallasnews.com

A big environmental change is coming to a muddy, skinned-off patch of former condominium land jammed up against one of Dallas' busiest freeways.

Native prairies, oaks and wildflowers, reminders of North Texas' natural past, are destined for the site's future. So, too, is a new building of nearly a quarter-million square feet that planners promise will meet the highest environmental and energy standards.

Details are just emerging about the environmental aspects of the George W. Bush Presidential Center, which will rise between Southern Methodist University's campus and North Central Expressway. Groundbreaking for the center, which will house the former president's archives, foundation, institute and a museum, is expected late this year.

The center's 23-acre tract will include native plants and sophisticated conservation measures, such as a wetland and underground cisterns to catch and recycle most rainwater. The building, made of Texas materials over cast concrete, will get nearly 10 percent of its electricity and all of its hot water from solar energy.
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Certification push

The project aims to earn a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design platinum certification, the highest rating offered by the U.S. Green Building Council, which promotes energy-efficient construction with low-toxicity materials. Former President Bill Clinton's library in Little Rock, Ark., has LEED platinum certification.

To reduce energy use, the Bush building will have energy-efficient windows, heating and air conditioning, in addition to window overhangs to provide shade. Solar power will provide hot water and some electricity.

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http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcont...z.4a15b95.html