When the City of Kirkland began renovating the 85-year-old Sessions Funeral Home in 2008, its designers were aiming for a Silver certification, the second of four rating levels, through the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED^®), which was developed by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). In late August, the USGBC awarded the City its LEED^® Gold certification, the second highest rating, for use of sustainable practices in the annex which is located at 310 First Street. The City is celebrating its achievement at a certification ceremony to be held on Thursday, October 20, 3 p.m. and invites the community to learn about the sustainable features of the building.

“This certification recognizes the City’s use of site sustainability, water efficiency, energy conservation, building reuse and renewable materials,” notes Kirkland Mayor Joan McBride, who will give welcome remarks at the ceremony. “Kirkland is a sustainability leader and this project reaffirms our commitment to protecting our environment.”

Some of the building’s energy savings features include compact fluorescent lighting, operable windows, sun shades, and deciduous trees on the south side which eliminated the need for air conditioning. Water wise features include metered faucets to reduce water usage, rain barrels to collect water for irrigation, drought resident and native plants, and dual flush toilets. Much of the original Fir flooring was refinished, new floor covering was made of cork that is harvested without killing the tree, and countertops are made of a 100% post-consumer recycled paper product called Paperstone. All interior paints and finishes are low- or no- VOC (volatile organic compound).

At the certification ceremony, City officials will be joined by sustainability industry representatives and project construction managers, architects, and the Cascadia Green Building Council. The event is open to the public. The ceremony will include a plaque dedication. For more information about the certification or the ceremony, contact David Barnes, Planner, City of Kirkland, at 425-587-3250 or dbarnes@kirklandwa.gov. For more about Kirkland’s sustainability efforts, visit www.kirklandwa.gov/kirklandgreen.

The USGBC LEED green building certification system is the foremost program for the design, construction, and operation of green buildings. By using less energy, LEED-certified building save money for families, businesses, and tax payers; reduce greenhouse gas emissions; and contribute to a healthier environment for residents, workers, and the larger community. For more information about LEED, visit www.usgbc.com.  [10.11.11]