The Northwest Maritime Center in Port Townsend, Washington was recently awarded LEED GOLD for its innovative design, which was carefully planned to protect and improve the waters of Puget Sound while providing a space to showcases the art and craft of wooden boats.
The center is promoting and preserving a rich maritime heritage in an equally rich sustainable environment. All aspects of sustainability were taken into consideration by both the client and the design team.
In the development of the site, a former bulk oil terminal for more than 80 years, more than 2,400 tons of contaminated soil were removed and properly disposed of.
In addition, 8,000 shoots of new eel grass were planted on site thanks to students and other volunteers who assisted divers and scientists in this restorative process. Eel grass is vital to the local shoreline’s ecosystem as it provides nursery grounds for many fish and shellfish species.
The building itself utilizes a number of energy reduction strategies, including abundant access to natural daylight and ventilation achieved through operable clerestory windows that run the length of the buildings.
100 percent of the center’s power is derived from Puget Sound Energy’s green power program, and the building is completely wired for solar panels, which will be installed once additional funding is raised.
