Swenson Civil Engineering Building at University of Minnesota Duluth

The Swenson Civil Engineering Building, a LEED Gold certified structure, is a testament to our commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly construction. Adjoining Voss-Kovach Hall, this building houses six sophisticated teaching and research laboratories, classrooms, and offices. It features two-story glass laboratories for testing and another lab equipped with a large flume for recycled storm water.

The building’s water runoff system, made from reclaimed wood and permeable pavement, filters storm water passing through the surface and into the base layers. This system, along with other sustainable features such as programmable building controls, a displacement ventilation system for heating and cooling, and solar tubes for natural light, underscores our dedication to green construction practices.

As a LEED Gold certified building, the Swenson Civil Engineering Building is recognized for its sustainable and environmental performance. To achieve this certification, the building incorporated LEED rating system methods such as enhanced ventilation, utilization of low-emission construction materials, advanced lighting management and thermal control, access to natural light throughout the facility, and the addition of an under-floor air distribution system. A green roof was also included to reduce storm runoff, noise, glare from outside buildings, and to aid in cooling the building.

This project has been recognized with several awards, including the Minnesota Construction Association Project Achievement Award, The ECOSTRUCTURE Evergreen, The AIA Chicago Distinguished Building Award, and the Engineering News-Record Regional Best Project Award.