A Landmark in Sustainability

Western’s cutting-edge Kaiser Borsari Hall opened for classes winter quarter, providing a new home for WWU’s growing electrical and computer engineering, energy science and computer science programs—as well as a new benchmark for sustainable construction.

Kaiser Borsari Hall’s design embodies the highest sustainability standards, aligning with WWU’s vision of becoming the region’s first zero-energy university campus. The eco-friendly design goes beyond aesthetics; it integrates advanced energy-saving technologies to ensure carbon neutrality and operates with a zero-energy footprint.

Funded by a gift from Fred Kaiser and Grace Borsari, the largest philanthropic donation in Western’s history, along with state and federal funds, Kaiser Borsari Hall includes 54,000 square feet of classrooms, labs, collaborative learning spaces and offices. Western will seek certification through the International Living Future Institute, reinforcing the building’s status as a “smart building” that exceeds LEED standards and meets the rigorous Living Building Challenge Energy Petal Certification criteria.

Architecture firm Perkins&Will and general contractor Mortenson were both deeply involved in optimizing design and construction on Kaiser Borsari Hall to further reduce embodied and operational carbon.

Using more mass timber—engineered multi-layer wood panels—in a lab environment is an innovative approach to sustainable design, offering comparable structural integrity to traditional steel and concrete while providing significant environmental benefits, such as reduced carbon emissions and long-term carbon storage. Opting for mass timber reduced the building’s global warming potential by about 50 percent from a similar steel structure building and about 70 percent from a similar concrete structure.

Seventy-five percent of Kaiser Borsari’s roof is covered in solar panels—a requirement for meeting the International Living Future Institute’s certification standards. The remainder of the building’s energy is supplied through the Puget Sound Energy Green Direct program.

Fixed shades on the south facing windows allow light into the building without heating spaces excessively. The connection with nature is maintained without compromising the energy efficiency of the building.

Emphasizing hands-on, practical learning, the teaching laboratories feature flexible instrumentation and adaptable furnishings. These spaces allow students to engage directly with cutting-edge materials and technology while ensuring the adaptability needed to support evolving pedagogies.

Non-classroom spaces provide environments that promote intellectual and academic growth for all students. Key features include a bright, accessible student lounge, a student-centered lobby and an event space for industry collaboration. Breakout and study areas along circulation paths encourage interaction and learning beyond the classroom.

The exterior siding is shou sugi ban, made with a traditional Japanese technique to char wood to increase durability and longevity. After charring, the wood is cooled, cleaned and finished with a natural oil, producing a beautiful finish that is resistant to fire, insects and water damage and free from harmful chemicals and surface treatments. A natural patina will develop on the siding over time, but the original appearance can be restored with re-application of oil.