Designed by Huckabee, the new 125,393 sf elementary school for Fort Bend ISD, located on a 13-acre site in Richmond, Texas, supports small-group engagement and collaboration with the use of grade-level learning neighborhoods and a large 2-story learning commons. The exterior matches the aesthetics of the surrounding residential development and incorporates regional materials to create a cohesive look.
DBR provided mechanical, electrical, plumbing, low voltage technology, and LEED consulting services for this project. We incorporated engineering design strategies geared towards enhancing efficiency and resilience. Using low-flow and low-flush plumbing fixtures, potable water use was reduced by more than 30%. HVAC system design strategies, energy-efficient equipment, and 100% LED lighting with automated controls contributed to predicted energy cost savings of more than 27% when compared to the baseline energy standard.
Although Fort Bend county was hard-hit by Hurricane Harvey while Patterson Elementary was still under construction, this project was not impacted by the storm or subsequent flooding. But the community became more aware of the importance of planning for resilience and reducing environmental impact.
Innovation points were earned with high-albedo roofing, over 35% regional materials, and by utilizing all LED, low-mercury lamps for lighting. Additionally, the project staff designed and committed to implementing a curriculum that will assist in using the school as a teaching tool to highlight the high-performance features of the building. During construction, over 85% of the on-site generated construction waste was diverted from landfills. The school achieved LEED Certified for Schools status.