Woodside Priory School Benedictine Classrooms has been awarded the 2016 Green Building Award by Sustainable San Mateo County.

The Sustainable San Mateo County Awards Event is an inspiring evening that pays tribute to those working to make our region truly sustainable. Attendees are treated to a networking hour, sustainable dinner and wine, entertaining live and silent auctions, and video presentations of our winners. Proceeds from the evening support SSMC’s general operating funds and programs.

Since 1999, SSMC has presented the annual Sustainability Awards program, an event that heightens community awareness about sustainability. The awards recognize San Mateo County businesses, community groups, and individuals that have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to bringing sustainable practices to their work. In addition, SSMC, San Mateo County RecycleWorks, and the San Mateo County Chapter of the American Institute of Architects present a Green Building Award. To date, over 100 Sustainability and Green Building Awards have been given among hundreds of worthy nominations. The goal is to inspire and support sustainable design in architecture and to recognize the designers, builders, and owners of green buildings in San Mateo County. More than 350 community leaders, volunteers, interested citizens, and local media representatives attend the awards event.

Woodside Priory’s vision was to create a new classroom facility and community gathering space while being a steward for the environment and future generations. The building is well sited in the context of the existing campus and hillside topography. The architecture is warm and attractive, blending well with the adjacent student center. The existing faculty building in the square was demolished, and the exterior siding was salvaged and re-used on the new faculty building as a tribute to the history of the campus. The warm natural building materials and newly planted native trees create a welcoming environment. Over 98% of demolition debris was diverted, along with 78% construction debris, much higher than the local requirements. The energy efficient mechanical system utilizes 100% outside air and energy recovery ventilators, resulting in energy use that is 48.8% better than Title 24 requirements. Point of use water heaters at sinks avoid the need for a recirculating hot water system. The design utilizes daylighting,sensors, and high efficiency lights. The roof is covered with photo-voltaic cells which will contribute to a net zero or negative carbon footprint.

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