Steel Curtain Wall System Helps Fountaindale Public Library Nab LEED Gold in Style

The Fountaindale Public Library in Bolingbrook, IL, is a learning wonderland. It utilizes expansive views, nature-evoking materials and a transformative floor plan to bridge the familiar with fantasy in storybook fashion. So compelling is the design that few visitors would readily guess the captivating space meets the USGBC’s stringent LEED Gold standards – a prominent building goal for the library’s board members.

“From the outset of this project, the Fountaindale Public Library board identified being a LEED certified building as a primary objective,” said Peggy Danhof, president of the Fountaindale Public Library, in a press release.

To ensure a visually compelling, green library, Nagle Hartray Architecture of Chicago wove numerous sustainable strategies and construction features into the building design. Among the elements that led to the certification was the use of daylighting. A balanced light-admitting plan helps improve the library’s interior environment, as well as helps control energy consumption and light pollution.

One challenge the firm faced during the daylighting design process was how to adequately illuminate the library’s third floor space and still ensure a good user experience. The ideal application would transfer large amounts of soft, glare-free light while simultaneously contributing to the library’s otherworldly design.

The firm found their solution with the SteelBuilt Curtainwall Infinity™ System from Technical Glass Products (TGP). The steel curtain wall system is typically three times stronger than traditional aluminum curtain wall systems. Design professionals can use almost any type of custom steel member for a back mullion, including stainless steel, box, I-beams and T-shapes. This allows for greater free spans, larger areas of glass and reduced frame dimensions – each of which is necessary for effectively transferring daylight throughout the library’s expansive third floor. Incorporated within the large curtain wall system is glazing that features a textured surface for more diffuse light. The silk-screen pattern is traced from tree shadows, helping to create a transformative effect for library members.

Learn more about SteelBuilt Curtainwall Infinity products.