Charles Schwab Branch at the Peak
This project is an earnest effort by Charles Schwab to convey the image of a green company and is one of only a few branches that Charles Schwab has built from the ground up. From the onset of the project it was decided that some level of LEED certification would be pursued. Green education signage will be displayed around the building to point out some of the sustainable features of the building. A photovoltaic (PV) system is installed on the parking canopies, which further conveys the notion that Charles Schwab is serious about sustainable building. The branch bank is located on a campus owned by Charles Schwab next to a large call/data center facility. Green Ideas integrated several sustainable strategies into the design, development and construction of the project allowing it to achieve LEED Gold level certification.
Sustainable Strategies
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Low VOC-emitting materials for the building’s interior creates enhanced Indoor Environmental Quality
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Occupancy sensors and permanent monitoring systems were installed to minimize energy use
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Onsite renewable energy via photovoltaic (PV) panels
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Building materials with high-recycled content were sourced from local vendors
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Low-flow fixtures reduce domestic water use
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Wood products used in the project were harvested from Forest Stewardship Council certified forests
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Bicycle parking stalls, showers, and changing rooms are provided to building occupants to encourage alternative transportation
Project Results
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LEED for New Construction Gold level achieved
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42% energy cost savings above ASHRAE 90.1-2007 energy standard
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84% reduction of potable water use for irrigation
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42% reduction of potable water for domestic use
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88% of construction waste was diverted from the landfill
