Kirsch Center for Environmental Studies

De Anza College
Cupertino, California (Silicon Valley)

Mediterranean climate
Stevens Creek watershed

Dave Deppen Green Architect Marin

Letter-One of the highest regarded environmental studies centers in North America. This methods at their best.

 
Approximately 80% reduction in energy use compared to a comparable college building. Winner of the first ever Livable Building award by the nation’s premier organization of building scientists. First LEED Platinum community college building in the United States.
 
And – this is a well-loved building.
 
Its sophisticated and welcoming variety of study, group work and teaching spaces are in constant, productive use. This is a place where energy management students and biodiversity students work together in a positive, productive atmosphere.
 
When the building opened, the building committee asked Dave to continue his work with them and to begin teaching green building courses here – which he continues to do.

CREDITS
CLIENT: FOOTHILL-DE ANZA Community College District
Kirsch Center Building Committee
Special funders:
Student Government of De Anza College
Steve and Michele Kirsch Foundation
Dave’s Role: Lead Designer and
Project Manager for design
Design Architectural firm:
Van der Ryn Architects
Architect of Record: VBN Architects
Energy Consultant: Don Aitken
Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Telecom:
Arup / San Francisco
Structural: Dasse
COST CONSULTANT: DAVIS LANGDON
LEED Consultant: Kathleen Smith
Commissioning: Rumsey Engineers
Public Bid Contractor: S. J. Amoroso
PHOTO: CODY ANDRESEN / ARUP