Part of a commitment to Better Projects and Better Communities includes delivering facilities that future generations can rely on. While much has been made of sustainable design, it’s clear that contractors have a major role to play in the future of green buildings. Sourcing and waste management practices alone are a major opportunity for improvement.

Since the unveiling of the LEED certification system in 2000 by the U.S. Green Council (USGBC), HB has delivered facilities that showcase design and construction best practices. The following projects highlight HB’s sustainable building approach:

Rio Grande 9th Grade Academy  |  LEED Gold 

This three-story, 85,000 sq ft building features team collaboration rooms on each floor and administration areas with reception, offices, lounge, and security offices. The building also includes science labs and core classrooms for incoming freshmen. Recycled material usage and low-emitting materials are just a few construction-phase features that earned this facility LEED Gold certification. The building was able to achieve an estimated 59 percent annual energy savings.

UNM HSC Business & Communications Center Tenant Improvement |  LEED Silver 

The UNM HSC Business & Communications Center was a major renovation to a 120,000 sq ft office building. Improvements included new mechanical systems, fire suppression, emergency power and lighting, and new network cabling distribution.

LEED sustainable benchmarks included: 40% reduction in potable water use, 26% reduction in power required for lighting systems, and 24% total HVAC energy cost. Additionally, 19% of the total building materials are recycled; 100% low-emitting adhesives, sealants, flooring systems, paints, and coatings were installed. Over 20% of the materials were manufactured and extracted regionally, supporting local economies and reducing environmental impact from transportation. The team also gained LEED credits for their Indoor Air Quality Plan and Waste Management Plan during construction.

HB Construction Headquarters  |  LEED Silver 

HB Construction’s headquarters was a complete frame-up restoration of a historic building located in the Nob Hill neighborhood in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The renovation includes collaborative office space, high-tech communication and A/V tools, and a rooftop patio. It received a LEED Silver certification and features roof-mounted Photovoltaic panels, optimized energy performance, and historic building preservation.

NMJC Allied Health Building   |    LEED Silver 

The NMJC Allied Health Building is an advanced facility with three active learning classrooms, a nursing lab, and an integrated simulation center where students receive hands-on training. The project team incorporated innovative design and sustainable construction strategies, earning the facility LEED Silver certification. During construction, the team implemented an Indoor Environmental Quality Plan and reduced emissions and pollutants in the facility by using Low-Emitting Materials. Additional sustainable practices during construction included a Construction Waste Management Plan and the use of regional materials.