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This 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.
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