Alliance Center

Key Project Information Project Title: Alliance Center
Project Location: Denver, Colorado
Owner: Alliance for Sustainable Colorado
Architect: Shears Adkins Architects
Sustainability Consultants: RMI/ENSAR
Building Size: 91,000 sq. ft.
Energy Cost Savings: US$10,000/yr
Annual Energy Reduction: 35%
Indoor Water Use Reduction: 90%
Completion Date: 2006

LEED Certifications: Gold for Existing Buildings, Silver for Commercial Interiors

Project Overview

Alliance Center - Denver, Colorado

The Alliance for Sustainable Colorado had a mission to create a center for groups that advocate for the development of policies and implementation of practices of sustainability. The building in mind for the Center was erected in the heart of historical downtown Denver in 1908 and would play home to nonprofit organizations, business, and government agencies all working together to fuel the sustainability movement.

While respecting the integrity of the five-story historical building, the Alliance set to work producing a plan for modifying and retrofitting “green” features into their building’s infrastructure. The result was a long-term goal to create a national center where sustainability advocates from around the country can convene.

RMI/ENSAR Role

RMI/ENSAR provided sustainable design consulting, green material recommendations, and comprehensive LEED coordination.

Results

Various sustainable strategies were utilized for this project including an aggressive waste management plan that works closely with local reuse organizations, the utilization of environmentally friendly materials throughout, an efficient mechanical system (at least a 35% energy reduction overall), low water use fixtures (estimated to provide a 50% reduction), and an underfloor air system. The Alliance for Sustainable Colorado received the 2007 Mayor’s Design Award for making design excellence a priority.