Rand Hall Facility Renovation Incorporates Environmental and Energy Efficient Details

Nashville, Tenn. – October 23, 2009 -- Gresham, Smith and Partners, a leading multi-disciplinary design and consulting firm to the built environment, is pleased to announce the Chef James Bistro, a 2,000-square-foot student dining facility located within Rand Hall at Vanderbilt University, has received LEED for Commercial Interiors (CI) certification from the US Green Building Council (USGBC).  Completed in August 2008, the GS&P-designed facility was renovated to meet Vanderbilt’s desire for a clean, inviting and timeless look which showcases the hot and grab-and-go cold items offered within while supporting the University-wide goal of all campus design and construction projects meeting LEED requirements. 

In order to receive certification, the design team incorporated several sustainable elements including the specification of design materials located within a 500-mile radius of Nashville - drastically reducing the carbon footprint of the project. These materials accounted for nearly 75 percent of the total material cost and included tile and millwork among other construction materials.  Additionally, a high percentage of regional materials, low-emitting materials and materials with high recycled content were also used. To improve energy consumption and support energy efficiency, 95 percent of all kitchen equipment installed are Energy Star-rated.

 "Vanderbilt is committed to incorporating sustainable building practices to design projects, whether in new construction or renovations of existing buildings," said Keith Loiseau, university architect. "We are very pleased to achieve a LEED-CI designation because often the restraints of working in an existing building are more difficult."

 GS&P created a main centered focal point between the point of sales – emphasizing an exhibit cooking station. The strong connection between chef and customer is underscored with the open feeling of the serving counters and view of the finishing stations. Finishes were kept neutral including warm lighting and reflective stainless steel, which allows the colors of the food to be the color accent of the design.  The design and construction process was an impressive 10 months, with the design process beginning in October 2007 and construction completing in order for the facility to be operational for fall semester 2008. 

"We are glad to have received LEED Certification for this project and commend Vanderbilt for their desire to develop a more sustainable solution for the renovation of the Chef James Bistro," stated Patrick Gilbert, AIA, LEED AP, principal, Gresham, Smith and Partners.  "We aimed to create a timeless design that would not become quickly dated or require further renovations for many years to come.  By completely gutting the facility we were able to install more efficient mechanical and electrical systems and our use of interior materials was inspired by the goals of sustainability as well as simplicity which would allow the food to be the centerpiece."

The Chef James Bistro recently received two awards for design excellence.  Food Management Magazine recognized the facility as Best Renovation in their 2009 Best Concept Awards while The National Association of College & University Food Services bestowed a Silver Award to the project in the category of Single Stand-Alone Concept/Outlet Retail Sales in their 2009 Dining Awards. 

LEED for Commercial Interiors is the green benchmark for the tenant improvement market. It is the recognized system for certifying high-performance green interiors that are healthy, productive places to work; are less costly to operate and maintain; and have a reduced environmental footprint. LEED for Commercial Interiors gives the power to make sustainable choices to tenants and designers, who do not always have control over whole building operations.

About GS&P:
Gresham, Smith and Partners provides design and consulting solutions for the built environment that contribute to the success of national and international clients.  For more than 40 years, GS&P has focused on enhancing quality of life and sustainability within communities.  GS&P consists of industry-leading professionals practicing architecture and engineering design as well as scientists and highly specialized planning and strategic consultants in Transportation, Land Planning, Aviation, Corporate and Urban Design, Environmental Compliance, Healthcare, Industrial and Water Services.  GS&P consistently ranks among the top architecture and engineering firms in the United States.  For more information regarding GS&P, visit www.gspnet.com.