LEED THROUGH EMPOWERMENT

The Washington State Veterans' Home (photo by George White) is a skilled nursing facility commissioned to refocus funds on patient care, to reduce overall expenses, and to offer residents the benefits of a sustainable environment. For the architectural team at NBBJ, quality of life for the residents was a key goal. Next week we'll see how the residents' greater control over their interior environment became integral with other sustainability features that led to a LEED Gold certification for the facility.

VIEW FROM THE WINGS

When it comes to theater design, architectural publications often showcase spectacular performance and public spaces. But in addition to this "patron’s view," of sweeping balconies and dramatic lobbies, there is the very different "performer’s view," the backstage accommodations that support the production of theatrical events. Next week, architect and professional actor Keith Gerchak, AIA will offer his observations on how designers can make backstage spaces more useful for cast and crew.