Our project is repurposing a portion of an academic building interior (1100 sq ft) as well as the same sq ft of an exterior courtyard, we anticipate the courtyard to be used most days as it will have wi-fi, seating, tables as well as educational component for use by classes. Our spaces function as one. Can this square footage be considered for both Daylight and Views credits in CI?
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Tristan Roberts
RepresentativeVermont House of Representatives
LEEDuser Expert
11477 thumbs up
December 28, 2010 - 6:39 pm
You're asking whether the exterior SF can be considered for this credit?Conventionally speaking I would say not, because it wouldn't normally be counted as occupied space according to LEED. If you wanted to cout it, I think that would hinge on whether it's considered "regularly occupied."What is the view from the courtyard? It would have to be a view outside to count.
Sue Barnett
PrincipalSue Barnett Sustainable Design
151 thumbs up
December 30, 2010 - 12:27 pm
It is common on this campus that exterior spaces are used on all but the most inclement days. It serves as outdoor classroom, student study and lounge as well as reception area. So I'm thinking it WOULD be considered regularly occupied area. What do you think?
Carlie Bullock-Jones
PrincipalEcoworks Studio
LEEDuser Expert
220 thumbs up
December 30, 2010 - 12:48 pm
Hi Sue!
If you can perhaps achieve the credit without including the "outdoor classroom" it seems that would be best/easier to avoid confusion. While I agree that exterior spaces can be utilized in this manner, you might have to consider that this area (square footage) will likely need to be included throughout your project submission for other related credits (i.e. EAp2/c1, IEQp1, IEQc6.1 & 6.2, IEQc8.1, etc.)
If you feel that this space will be 'regularly occupied' and the project design specifically intended this area to be used as a classroom then you might submit a project specific CIR to confirm and/or ensure that the area/square footage is utilized and accounted for consistently across all project submittals and documentation.
Hope helpful.
Sue Barnett
PrincipalSue Barnett Sustainable Design
151 thumbs up
December 30, 2010 - 1:07 pm
Thanks Carlie
I do know it would be easier to avoid the concept of outdoor space due to complications with all the credits, and may submit a CIR.
But at some point there should be an avenue within LEED to address this sort of situation of functional outdoor area- not using any energy to operate....
Happy Holidays to you!
Tristan Roberts
RepresentativeVermont House of Representatives
LEEDuser Expert
11477 thumbs up
December 30, 2010 - 4:17 pm
I don't often say this, but I think there could be potential here under IDc1. You have a project feature with multiple benefits that is not addressed under an existing credit. Perhaps look at LEED for Healthcare SSc9.1 or SSc9.2 for inspiration?