Natural Daylighting
The SAGE Classroom includes large view windows and a continuous row of clerestory windows to ensure both consistent ambient and variable lighting situations as well as views to the outdoors, all of which are essential to healthy cognitive functioning.
INNOVATIONS:
2-4 more square feet of windows than standard classrooms
Large, operable view windows
Clerestory windows
Skylights
Mini-blinds on all windows for manually controlled light
Higher and angled ceiling brings light deeper into classroom and increases perceived room size
Automatic dimming luminaries adjust to daylight levels, saving energy
Natural Ventilation
Natural ventilation is further promoted by the addition of operable windows, fans and a solar-powered roof-mounted ventilator.
INNOVATIONS:
Operable windows
Solar powered SunCooler ventilator
Low velocity fans
Energy Recovery Ventilator exchanges 3x more fresh air than standard HVAC system
Proper Solar Orientation
Proper orientation of the classroom ensures maximum natural daylighting without unwanted solar heat gain. By including the option for door placement on two sides of the building, both proper orientation and preferred entry access can be accommodated.
INNOVATIONS:
Two doors per classroom allows building to be placed in the optimal position for natural lighting while still allowing easy access from main building.
Overhangs block unwanted solar heat gain while still allowing windows to admit natural daylight.
Rethinking HVAC Systems
The SAGE classroom reduces the energy normally wasted in over-conditioning the air and increased focuses on significantly increasing ventilation - a key component of healthy air quality and leading to better student performance.
INNOVATIONS:
Occupants’ body heat utilized as primary heat source
Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) provides 3x the air exchange
Bio PCM: Phase Change Material in walls acts as thermal mass, stabilizing indoor temperature
Tight building envelope
Superior acoustical performance
Increased Portability
A steel floor system makes a sturdier structure for multiple relocations and reduces the high cost of site infrastructure that discourages reuse.
INNOVATIONS:
Steel frame allows for multiple moves and creates higher quality building for the long term.
Reduced Site Infrastructure
A steel floor system allows the classroom to be placed on or close to the ground eliminating the long ramps seen on many classrooms and the use of helical pier foundations provides a reusable foundation structure that creates long term savings.
INNOVATIONS:
Steel frame placed closer to the ground
Shorter, reusable mental ramp
Reusable helical pier foundation, leaves minimal impact on site