Santa Monica LEED Parking Structure

source: http://sustainabledesignupdate.com/?m=200710

On the heels of my Mumbai rant, I present a parking deck that the City of Santa Monica hopes to become the first LEED certified parking Structure.

From a Santa Monica press release:

The six-story, 882-space structure at the Civic Center features photovoltaic roof panels, a storm drain water treatment system, recycled construction materials and energy efficient mechanical systems.

The $29 million structure â€" which sits near the entrance and exit ramps at the end of the 10 Freeway â€" also features ground-floor retail, art works on every floor and sweeping city and ocean views.

City officials hope the 290,000-square-foot-garage will become the nation’s first parking structure certified by the U.S. Green Building Council Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED).

The structure’s photovoltaic panels â€" which cost $1.5 million â€" will pay for themselves in 17 years by generating $90,000 a year in electricity,” said Craig Perkins, director of Environmental and Public Works Management for the City.

This structure is busy looking, and it has a lot in common with the Mumbai building. But it has a clear portfolio of green features including a very large photovoltaic array. While this is edgy, and unusual looking, it looks playful and appropriate for its function.