April 18, 2019 by Brent Moe, PE, Project Manager
Located in Houston’s Third Ward, Energy Institute High School is the newest magnet school in Houston ISD and the first “energy” school in the Nation that is paving the way for students who aspire to a career in the energy industry.
A Project Advisory Team, including energy sector businesses, VLK architects and Houston ISD developed the design concept for the 800-student school which features a campus-like setting, mimicking many of the corporate campuses where energy students visit and intern during their high school education. An outdoor learning courtyard is the center of the campus with a shaded tiered collaboration area and outdoor instructional spaces. The design supports a technology rich campus that is part of the PowerUp 1:1 initiative and all instructional spaces are flexible and equipped with smart, interactive monitors.
It has been a rewarding experience to be a part of the design team for this dynamic project and witness the immediate impact this project has on the students.
DBR designed the mechanical air conditioning system to utilize a Variable Refrigerant Flow System for air condition the building with a Building Automation Controls System. Campus lighting utilizes occupancy space sensors throughout the entirety of the school for a cost effect system that meets the energy code requirements.
The new high school recently achieved LEED Silver and was awarded the 2019 Citation of Excellence by Learning by Design Magazine.