Believe in Bertschi:

Where Science Lives

Bertschi School continues to be at the forefront of green building technology and design. In July 2009 the school was presented with an exceptional opportunity – to be part of a regional team responding to the Living Building Challenge. The Restorative Design Collective, a group of Seattle-area design professionals on the leading edge of the sustainable building movement, asked Bertschi School to join them as partners in creating what could be the first Living Building in the state of Washington. The purpose of the Living Building Challenge is straightforward – to define the highest measure of sustainability possible in the built environment based on the best current thinking – recognizing that “true sustainability” is not yet possible. As part of this collaboration, all design services, from the initial concept phase through construction documents, were provided pro bono – at no cost.

The timing was truly providential. The Board was finalizing building plans for the new Science Wing on the north play court, a final component of the 2003 campus master plan. To be able to create a science classroom where students can literally see and touch sustainable practices is a tremendous opportunity for the school. Moreover, the RDC provided design services at no cost to Bertschi, which represents a savings of over $500,000. The Board enthusiastically approved joining the RDC in this partnership.

The Living Building Science Wing, opened in February 2011, allows us to expand upon current components of the science curriculum, such as rainwater harvesting and solar energy. In addition, students learn about passive ventilation, net-zero water and net-zero energy consumption, concepts that will push their thinking and understanding decades into the future. For our students, this building truly brings learning to life, offering an unparalleled educational experience.

If you are interested in touring the Science Wing, please contact Tiffany Carey '91 , Director of Advancement.

Press and Information

• Press Release [PDF] for The Living Building Science Wing Grand Opening
• A Fact Sheet [PDF] about the Living Building Science Wing is also available.
• For more press and updates about the project, follow this link to the updates page.

Learn more about the Living Building Challenge at the Living Building Institute web site.