The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) National Capital Region‘s annual event, A Midsummer Night’s Green, recognizes industry leaders and their significant contributions to sustainable design via the distribution of Community Leader Awards. This year, Lucketts Fire and Rescue Station earned the esteemed Judge’s Choice Award, an honor bestowed on projects regarded as exemplary by a panel of judges.
Sustainable Focus
The state-of-the-art fire station replaced its 60-year-old predecessor to serve the rural town of Lucketts in Loudoun County, Va. Completed in 2021, the LEED® Silver facility showcases how green strategies can drive a final product that prioritizes the needs of its end users, the surrounding community, as well as overall health and wellness. Such features and strategies include:
- A location restored with native or adaptive vegetation, making up more than 50% of the project site. As a result, no irrigation is required.
- No net increase in rainwater runoff from pre-project conditions.
- A 35% reduction of indoor potable water use for plumbing fixtures.
- A 30% reduction of energy costs.
- The utilization of wood-based materials certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, an organization committed to protecting and sustaining healthy forests.
- 90% of construction waste diverted from landfills through recycling and salvaging.
- Low-emitting finish materials that minimize indoor pollutants.
- A clear line of sight in more than 75% of regularly occupied spaces, fostering overall connectivity, openness in the design, and occupant satisfaction.
- Isolated bedroom spaces that promote healthy sleep habits for fire personnel.
- Red lighting incorporated for nightly use, stimulating and protecting melatonin production. This fosters optimal rest for fire personnel, enhancing general wellness and energy levels.
Collaborative Effort
Moseley Architects partnered closely with Loudoun County to incorporate these features with an aesthetic that complements the local farming community’s architectural context. In doing so, and in prioritizing green initiatives, the design boasts a commitment not only to form and function, but to the overall benefit of those who Lucketts Fire and Rescue Station serves.
Additional Recognition
Two projects designed by Moseley Architects were listed among the finalists:
