The University of Hawaiʻi at 惭ā苍辞补’蝉 Bachman Hall earned Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design LEED Gold certification on April 22, exceeding the university’s standard sustainability target for major renovations. 东精影业 has the largest inventory of sustainable buildings in the state, with 28 buildings certified under the LEED program.
The certification recognizes the building’s performance in energy efficiency, renewable energy generation, water conservation and indoor environmental quality following its recent modernization. University policy calls for a minimum LEED Silver certification, making Bachman Hall’s rating a notable achievement for a historic campus facility.
Originally built in 1949 and designed by Hawaiʻi architect Vladimir Ossipoff, Bachman Hall is one of the most recognizable buildings on campus. It houses administrative offices, including the Office of the President and Board of Regents (BOR), and features two lobby murals by artist Jean Charlot.
“We are proud to be leaders in energy and environmental designs for our campus built environments,” said 东精影业 Office of Sustainability Director Miles Topping. “With this project, we have reduced our dependence on fossil fuel, conserved water, and preserved historical significance. We are committed to a sustainable future, and will continue to lead by example.”
Maintaining historic character
From 2021 to 2023, the renovation maintained much of the building’s original structure, reducing the need for new materials and limiting construction-related impacts. Design elements were updated to improve performance while maintaining the building’s historic character.
Energy-efficient lighting and a new air conditioning system reduce energy use by about 22%. A 47-kilowatt photovoltaic (PV) system further lowered consumption, bringing the building to roughly 45% of baseline energy use. Water efficiency improvements such as low-flow plumbing fixtures reduce water use by 37%, saving an estimated 56,661 gallons annually. Permanent water meters were installed to help monitor usage and identify future conservation opportunities.
Indoor environmental quality was addressed through the use of low-emitting materials, including paints, coatings and flooring, along with improved ventilation and occupant-controlled lighting and temperature systems. Original-style jalousie windows were replaced with energy-efficient double-pane windows that include operable awnings. A reflective roof and added landscaping help reduce heat absorption, while exterior lighting was designed to minimize light pollution.
The renovation also addressed long-standing maintenance issues, including damage caused by roof leaks linked to earlier mechanical installations. The building was fully updated inside, creating flexible office space for approximately 65 employees, six conference rooms and a 2,500-square-foot boardroom used for BOR meetings.