Two hospitals within Purdue University's new David and Bonnie Brunner Veterinary Medical Hospital Complex have received LEED Silver certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). The two facilities, a small animal hospital and an equine hospital, provide advanced veterinary medical care for animal patients, educate future veterinary medical professionals, and support the discovery of new treatments for diseases in both animals and people. By supporting clinical trials research, the hospitals help faculty and students make vital contributions to public health initiatives.
Flad is committed to transforming how buildings are designed and built and employed several measures that conserve water and energy. Low-flush and low-flow fixtures in the facility design will result in an annual 31 percent decrease in water consumption. Utilizing LED light fixtures, task lighting, and dimming controls contributed to an eight percent decrease in energy usage. An exhaust air energy recovery system utilizes enthalpy wheels for general exhaust air, recovering energy that is used to heat cold air in the winter as well as cool and dehumidify air in the summer. This saves energy throughout the entire year, as compared to a traditional system that only recovers energy when heating.
Other initiatives focus on occupant well-being. Glazing was selected to reduce glare, allowing daylight access on the interior for occupant comfort throughout the entire day. Ergonomic principles informed furniture selection, water bottle fillers were provided throughout, and the use of repurposed and reclaimed materials are integrated throughout the complex. Electric car charging stations and preferred parking for green vehicles encourage staff and visitors to use sustainable modes of transportation.
A signage program of QR codes links to information detailing the sustainable design strategies implemented in the buildings. Displayed on walls throughout the hospitals, each sign features a LEED category and details how the facility achieves that goal. The program celebrates the certification achievement while educating staff, faculty, and students, as well as clients who visit the facilities to receive care for their animals.
Purdue University 
Veterinary Medical Hospital Complex
April 03, 2023