College of Marin – Diamond PE Complex
Details
Location:
Kentfield, CA
Client:
College of Marin
Architect:
Kwan Henmi Architecture
Photography:
courtesy of College of Marin
Accreditation:
LEED Gold
Category:
Higher Education
Description
AlfaTech provided full mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering design and construction administration services for the modernization of the Diamond PE Complex at the College of Marin. This comprehensive renovation encompassed the men’s and women’s locker room buildings, an office/exercise room facility, and a large gymnasium. The scope also included new HVAC systems, upgraded electrical distribution, and advanced energy management controls that now link directly to the centralized campus-wide EMCS.
As part of a broader district-wide modernization program covering over 170,000 SF, AlfaTech led energy modeling, MEP facility assessments, and the development of district design standards. Notably, this project introduced a high-performance photovoltaic (PV) solar array—both rooftop and in an adjacent parking lot—to power the buildings and supply supplemental heating for the campus swimming pool. The result is a modern, energy-efficient facility that supports student health, athletics, and recreation while achieving LEED Gold certification.
Highlights
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Advanced Energy Management Control System (EMCS) integrated with district-wide EMCS
Photovoltaic solar array system for onsite renewable energy
Supplemental solar thermal system for pool heating
High-efficiency HVAC systems
LED lighting and occupancy sensors
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Fully modernized and energy-efficient physical education complex
Improved indoor air quality, thermal comfort, and lighting
Reduced utility costs through renewable energy integration
Enhanced student and faculty experience in athletic and wellness facilities
LEED Gold certified for sustainability leadership
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AlfaTech’s district-wide energy modeling and MEP assessments informed scalable improvements beyond the Diamond PE Complex, ensuring long-term value across campus.
The use of solar power to heat swimming pool water alongside building power distribution demonstrates dual-purpose renewable design.
Direct integration of the EMCS with campus-wide systems supports centralized monitoring and optimization, enabling future smart campus functionality
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The Diamond PE Complex renovation was guided by a holistic approach to sustainability and earned LEED Gold certification for its forward-thinking strategies:
Photovoltaic Systems: A series of rooftop and parking lot-mounted solar panels generate renewable energy for the facility, reducing dependency on grid electricity and lowering carbon emissions.
Solar Pool Heating: Solar energy is also used for heating the outdoor swimming pool, leveraging clean energy to offset a typically high energy use area.
Energy Management: A modern EMCS allows for real-time monitoring and precise control of mechanical and electrical systems, maximizing energy efficiency while reducing operating costs.
Lighting and Controls: Daylight harvesting, LED lighting, and occupancy sensors minimize energy use and enhance visual comfort.
Water Conservation: High-efficiency plumbing fixtures were selected to reduce water usage throughout the locker rooms and gym facilities.
Materials and Resources: Low-emitting materials, recycled content, and regionally sourced products contributed to healthier indoor environments and minimized the environmental impact of construction.
These features not only enhance daily operations and user experience but also contribute to a long-term reduction in campus carbon footprint.
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