By Jeff Slagle, President, Virginia Ready Mixed Concrete Association
Discovery Elementary School
5241 36th St N
Arlington, VA 22207
In the heart of Arlington, Virginia, Discovery Elementary School is a model for the future of sustainable educational environments. Completed in 2015 and encompassing 97,588 GSF, this landmark project, envisioned by AIA Virginia member VMDO Architects, represents a pinnacle of eco-friendly construction within the K-12 educational sector.
A Vision of Sustainability and Collaboration
As the Mid-Atlantic’s first zero-energy school and the largest of its kind in the United States, Discovery Elementary embodies the ambitious goal of merging sustainability with educational excellence. The project’s success is a product of the collaborative synergy between visionary architects, dedicated contractors, and the innovative use of concrete, highlighting the material’s pivotal role in achieving energy efficiency and environmental stewardship.
Innovative Design and Concrete’s Role
Designed to support 650 students from Pre-K through 5th grade, Discovery Elementary integrates 1,706 rooftop solar panels, a geothermal well field, solar pre-heating for domestic water, and 100% LED lighting. Central to its design, the strategic use of Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) and high thermal mass concrete walls significantly reduce the building’s energy needs and contribute to its zero-energy status.
Awards and Recognition
The project has garnered numerous accolades, reflecting its impact and innovation in sustainable design:
- 2016 Project of Distinction by the Association for Learning Environments
- 2016 Honor Award by AIA Central Virginia
- 2016 Honorable Mention by Learning by Design
- 2015 Award of Excellence by Design Arlington Awards
Sustainability in Action
The Arlington Public Schools’ Energy Report Card for FY 2019-2023 highlights Discovery Elementary’s exceptional energy performance, with an EUI significantly lower than the district average. This achievement is a testament to the effectiveness of concrete’s thermal properties and the school’s integrated approach to sustainability.
Looking Forward
Discovery Elementary serves as an inspiring example of what can be achieved when innovative design meets the versatility and efficiency of concrete. It stands as a model for architects, emphasizing the role of concrete in creating energy-efficient, environmentally responsible educational environments.
VRMCA is here to help Virginia’s architects learn about the benefits of concrete in their design – for any and all project types. You may contact Hessam Nabavi at (703) 966-6743 or via email at hessam@vrmca.com for any questions or information about the role concrete can play in your design.
250 West Main Street
Suite 100
Charlottesville, Virginia 22902
http://www.vrmca.com/
Photos courtesy of Hessam Nabavi with VRMCA
