Construction of three new academic buildings in the heart of the Ohlone College campus (funded by Measure G bond), as well as improvements and updates to other buildings in the campus infrastructure. The effort sought to modernize Ohlone’s academic programs through the introduction of a new science center, art building and learning commons, which includes a library, tutoring labs and collaborative learning centers. All of the buildings feature technology-enhanced classrooms, laboratories and lecture halls.
With a long-term goal of achieving net-zero energy consumption, the design for the academic core harnesses an existing on-site solar farm and introduces a new geothermal ground loop system that heats and cools the new buildings. Optimal building orientation, shading devices, daylight harvesting, high-performance building envelopes, and the mild climate are among a few of the many factors supporting the college’s net zero aspirations.