Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Center - Grand Teton National Park, WY

Project Overview

The Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Center, designed as a model for environmental stewardship within the National Park System, has achieved the highest level of environmental recognition with a Platinum LEED Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. The Preserve exemplifies a commitment to sustainability by incorporating Premier SIPs, geothermal heating, and photovoltaic panels to drastically reduce energy costs.

Design and Sustainability

The design of the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve prioritizes a whole-building approach to sustainable development. It integrates key elements such as site development, water savings, the use of sustainable and recycled materials, and enhancing indoor environmental quality. These aspects collectively contribute to the Preserve’s high standards of sustainability and its substantial reduction in energy consumption.

Why SIPs?

Premier SIPs were selected for their exceptional insulation qualities and efficiency in creating the most effective building envelope. Their use aligns with the Preserve’s goal of reducing energy costs by 78% compared to typical buildings, demonstrating a proactive approach in environmental conservation.

Benefits of SIPs

• Superior Insulation: Premier SIPs offer top-tier insulation, which significantly lowers heating and cooling demands.
• Structural Integrity: These panels provide a robust structural system that effectively resists loads caused by wind and snow, crucial for the durability of the building.
• Environmental Friendliness: Made from sustainable materials, Premier SIPs contribute to the Preserve’s environmental goals by reducing heating and cooling costs and minimizing the ecological footprint.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

• Energy Cost Reduction: The integration of Premier SIPs, coupled with geothermal heating and photovoltaic panels, results in a 78% reduction in energy costs.
• LEED Platinum Certification: This achievement underscores the Preserve’s commitment to leading-edge sustainable building practices.
• Comprehensive Sustainability Approach: The project emphasizes holistic sustainability in site development, material selection, water conservation, and maintaining superior indoor environmental quality.

Premier SIPs Benefits

• Cost Savings: Premier SIPs are 55% more energy efficient, significantly reducing overall energy costs.
• Enhanced Building Envelope: The efficient building envelope created by SIPs ensures minimal energy loss, maximizing efficiency.
• Reduced HVAC Requirements: The superior insulation properties of SIPs substantially decrease the need for heating and cooling.
• Reduced Waste: SIPs construction minimizes waste generation during the building process, aligning with sustainable building practices.

Key Features

The Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve stands as a prime example of environmental stewardship and sustainable construction within the National Park System. It showcases how innovative building materials like Premier SIPs can be effectively used to achieve remarkable energy savings and support a building’s structural and environmental goals.