Studio Hillier used a sustainable approach at each design phase to reduce negative impacts on the environment and the health of the occupants, without compromising the bottom line. The palette of natural materials was selected primarily for its durability and sustainability.  Interior finishes are free or have very low volatile compounds to create a learning environment with the best possible air quality.

Energy: A careful consideration was given to mechanical, electrical, and lighting systems selection to balance the energy needs of the children and the energy efficiency goals of each space.

Heating and cooling: Each use of the building, daycare, multipurpose room, and admin area, has an independent HVAC Energy Star equipment based on building orientation and specific loads, including separate controls, HEPA filtration, fresh air intakes, and dedicated ventilation systems for preparation areas, changing areas, and restrooms. Supply air systems include automation controls that pull the system back to pre-determined set points when the spaces are not in regular use.

Light: A great energy conservation is achieved through using low consumption LED lighting fixtures, controlled by occupancy and daylight sensors.

Water: Employing water-conserving fixtures is the most direct way to conserve water generally and especially in a child care center. Low-flow toilets, low-flow faucets, and aerators, touchless faucets were provided to reduce water consumption.

Flooring: In the daycare wing the corridors were provided with Marmoleum, a bio-based resilient flooring made from natural raw materials. This contributes to a healthy indoor environment as Marmoleum offers a floor that is hygienic and has natural anti-bacterial properties.

The classrooms are provided with low maintenance LVT flooring suitable for healthcare and educational environments with low TVOC emissions. This solution helps for cleanability, durability, low maintenance, and water resistance.

The administration area was provided with “Cradle to Cradle” certified carpet with 43% recycled content and 100% recyclable, ADA, and antimicrobial compliant.

Paint: The paint meets the most stringent VOC regulations with anti-microbial agents that inhibit the growth of mold and mildew on the paint surface.

Ceilings: The ceilings were provided with acoustical tiles with a high noise reduction coefficient (NRC), washable, impact-resistant, with mold & mildew protection, with more than 50% recycled content.

Windows: High thermal performance storefront system with thermal break and low E insulated glass to improve energy efficiency. The windows offer access to full-spectrum daylight without limiting views to the exterior and ambient. The window treatments are provided to block glare and excessive light and diffuse sunlight.

Walk-off Mats: The entrances were provided with walk-off mats to prevent the soil and bacteria to enter the building through the entryway on shoes and other footwear. The floor mats reduce incoming debris which reduces a facility’s reliance on cleaning chemicals.

Entering the building: Access to the building is currently strictly limited to children and staff at the center. However, once it is safe to do so, each childcare family and YW staff member will be supplied with a unique passcode that allows entrance during certain hours of the day.

Just past the front doors, there is a screen video and audio ability that allows staff inside to see and hear who is at the door before entrance is granted or denied from afar, without having to be face-to-face.

Entering the childcare wing: The Burke Foundation Early Childhood Center at YWCA Princeton consolidates all of our childcare classrooms in a single wing, and the administrative office space is on the other side. Only parents and staff with their individual pass codes will be able to enter the wing.

Spaces that are usable for all community members: The entire lobby area, with the front desk, resource center, and gender-neutral bathrooms, are wheelchair accessible. All classrooms are also marked with braille.

Lactation room: Because our center cares for infants, it’s critical to have a space for nursing mothers. Whether you need to pump or feed your baby, new mothers have a safe, secure, private room to do just that, featuring a glider and a built-in changing table.