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his fall marks the completion of extensive renovations and updates to the AVA Gallery and Art Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire. In many ways the new design has managed to bring out more of the character of the original building, which once housed the H.W. Carter overall factory. The new galleries have a great, open feeling to them with plenty of natural light. One of the best parts of the new addition has been the creation of classrooms and studio spaces designed with kids in mind.

In planning the renovations, AVA sought to build an environmentally conscious and efficient space, and intended to follow LEED guidelines. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System™ is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high-performance green buildings.
“When we started out, we did it because we knew it was the right thing to do,” said AVA Executive Director, Bente Torjusen.

“It cost a bit more, but we know that we will make that up with savings in the future due to efficiency.” LEED evaluates buildings and gives a rating (certified, silver, gold, or platinum) based on a points system. AVA decided not to “chase points” and just implement the suggested improvements they thought would be right for them.

“Although we initially aimed simply for basic LEED certification,” said Torjusen, “It looks like we may achieve ‘Gold Level’ efficiency with our renovation since we have used spray foam insulation, replaced all of the old windows, and switched from oil to a new liquid propane furnace.”

Regardless of the final rating, the AVA Gallery and Art Center now has a beautiful and inspirational space that will suit them for many years to come.