The Design-Build Institute of America recognized SWBR, FXFOWLE, and LeChase with the DBIA 2014 Excellence in Design and the DBIA 2014 National Award of Excellence in the education category for their work on the nationally recognized RIT Golisano Institute of Sustainability (RIT GIS). SWBR served as executive architect and architect of record on the project, with LeChase Construction Company as design-build team leader, and FXFOWLE as design architect.
The nearly $36 million project consisted of a unique 84,000-square-foot, four-story addition to the university. It houses sustainability research, technology transfer, education and outreach, and is a state-of-the-art showcase for green construction and design, as well as GIS master’s and Ph.D. programs in sustainability and architecture. The project was completed in March 2013. It is among the first in the world to offer a Ph.D. program in sustainability.
The design team incorporated cutting-edge “green” technology throughout the entire building, ranging from the solar panels on the soaring canopy to the vertical wind turbines near its front entrance. The building contains specialized research labs, student work areas, classrooms and office suites, and features a fuel cell, microgrid, geothermal system, green roof and green wall.
The DBIA defines, teaches and promotes best practices in design-build project delivery and was established in 1993. The DBIA and its members work to form an alliance between designers and builders that fosters collaboration and teamwork. Members work to have an impact on the local design and construction community through programs and events, legislative efforts, and owner and professional education and certification.