UMaine Farmington, Kalikow Education Center

The Kalikow Education Center is home to the University of Maine at Farmington College of Education, Health, and Rehabilitation. The challenging design involved creating an environmentally conscious building adhering to LEED criteria, within a modest budget of $145 per SF. Simultaneously, the architecture had to inspire teaching and learning.

The building maximizes solar energy utilization and infuses natural daylight. Its heating and cooling rely on an innovative geothermal heat pump system that harnesses the earth's warmth in winter and dissipates it in summer through a closed-loop well system. In south-facing rooms, thoughtfully sloped ceilings redirect sunlight, illuminating offices and classrooms. A warm and inviting student lounge at the entrance offers a space for studying and socializing. The design features an array of sustainable local materials and practices: high-performance wall systems; landscape design using native plants and no irrigation; recycled materials in carpeting, wall panels, and furniture; high recycled content in structural steel; and low-emission paints and flooring materials.