Tozzer receives LEED Gold certification

The recent renovation of the home to the one of the largest and most comprehensive anthropology collections in the world — the Faculty of Arts and Sciences’ Tozzer Anthropology Building — has achieved LEED Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.

The 26,000 square foot renovation sought to unite the Department of Anthropology and reimagine the library’s use, transitioning the space away from purely collection storage to a state-of-the-art, collaborative research and study space. An additional 10,000 square foot fourth floor was added to the project to create new office space, student rooms, and a classroom for the department.

“Tozzer’s innovative and sustainable redesign has revitalized the building by creating open and inviting spaces that encourage our students, faculty, and staff to work side-by-side,” said Lynne Schmelz, librarian for the sciences and librarian of the Cabot Science Library. “We are excited for the next phase in Tozzer’s history, and look forward to preserving and showcasing the collections and providing services in this beautiful, new sustainable space.”

Occupant health and indoor environmental quality was a main focus of Tozzer’s renovation. Low chemical emitting building materials and finishes were chosen. The team also prioritized access to natural light and outdoor views, exemplified by the Library’s new central skylight.

To maximize energy efficiency an active chilled beam system uses water to both heat and cool the building. Lighting controls, occupancy sensors, and daylight dimming sensors were also installed. Overall, the renovated building is expected to use 53 percent less energy than the baseline energy model.