SCAD student helps design sustainable schools

Article By: E. Christina Spitz
Published: May 9, 2008

Lisa Gallant (B.F.A., architecture, 2007), now an M.Arch. student at SCAD, spent several months interning at H.L. Turner Group Inc., a Concord, N.H.-based firm nationally recognized for its award-winning environmental building designs.

Gallant worked on many projects for the firm, one of the most noteworthy of which was the Advantage Classroom™, a design project that addresses issues of air quality, lighting, acoustics, green materials and program organization for educational facilities.

"The basic philosophy behind the design and construction of these educational facilities is to enhance the learning environment with holistic, sustainable design principles," according to the firm's design statement. "Through the integration of these systems, Turner looks to create a supportive physical, psychological and social environment that enhances students' performance."

Gallant worked on projects for seven out of about 40 schools designed by the firm, including elementary schools, high schools and universities. Her responsibilities for these projects included participating in design charrettes as well as in client and school board meetings and interviews. She also assisted project managers and job captains with drawing production and helped to determine cost estimations for projects of 200,000 square feet.

"I believe sustainability is something that needs to be consistently taught and practiced in schools," she said. "Being 'green' cannot be a trend that people eventually tire of, but a common practice integrated into every facet of life, simply because it is the right thing to do. It is a pressing issue, but not an unsolvable problem."

Gallant worked on other projects at the firm, including converting an old mill building into apartment living and heading up a LEED research group for a project for a General Electric plant in Schenectady, N.Y.

However, for Gallant, the projects are about much more than just the buildings. "I began to realize that architecture was not only a media for design solutions, but an outlet for social activism," she said. "Through design, I can help make a difference, even if it is only a small impact."