William Duff Architects (WDA) is proud to be recognized for its commitment to sustainable design, receiving a Merit Award in the Health + Wellbeing category at the USGBC California Green Building Awards. The firm’s latest hospitality lounge project for Alaska Airlines, located in Terminal 1 at San Francisco International Airport, showcases WDA’s expertise in integrating sustainable strategies and is part of its growing portfolio of LEED projects.
Designed to LEED Gold standards and pending certification, sustainable materials and practices were integrated throughout the expansive 11,000+ sq. ft. Alaska lounge. From high efficiency HVAC units to low-flow fixtures, the project encompassed multiple design and construction strategies to promote health and well-being. Sited with a wall of windows, the lounge receives tremendous amounts of natural daylight and dramatic views of the iconic Junipero Serra Park. Biophilic design is featured throughout the space for a touch of nature. The design and construction teams also collaborated to ensure nearly 80% of construction waste was diverted from landfill. Despite the challenging logistics of removing waste through an active airfield, the project team was able to divert 55 tons of debris and save over 100 tons of CO2e from entering our atmosphere.
“Sustainable design has always been a priority for our practice,” said WDA’s Jonathan Tsurui, Associate Principal, Hospitality. “I’m so grateful we had the chance to work with a like-minded client like Alaska Airlines to help contribute to their EverGreen Journey.”
The firm’s Community Practice has also completed LEED-rated projects Ireland House and San Francisco Central Shops, an adaptive reuse project. Community Principal David K. Plotkin, one of WDA’s biggest sustainability champions, advocates for adaptive reuse whenever possible. He notes, “by repurposing existing buildings, we can preserve resources and reduce our carbon footprint.” In addition to the environment, it is also good for design. “I’m fond of the juxtaposition in combining old elements with new materials. It brings a richness to the design,” Plotkin said.
WDA also joined the AIA 2030 Commitment as a signatory this year to help meet the 2030 Challenge, an effort to achieve carbon neutrality in all new buildings, developments, and major renovations by 2030. The commitment program offers architects a way to publicly show their dedication and track progress towards net zero. Signing on and reporting growth increases firm accountability and gives firms access to the tools they need to reach the challenge’s targets. William Duff Architects looks forward to strengthening their overall commitment to sustainable design with this effort.