The planning of the building and the exterior design were derived directly from analysis of the program and the recognition that every element of the program should have direct and controllable access to natural ventilation and views. The thinness of the buildings (just 43 feet in width on the operations side) and the number of strategically placed operable windows allow natural breezes to filter throughout all of the spaces. Windows at the end of halls provide a connection to the exterior and a constant reminder of the context, and can be controlled for varying conditions.
Skylights bring further light into interior spaces that would otherwise be dark and require electric lighting. Daylight harvesting and occupancy sensors are included throughout the facility to minimize energy use. Automatic daylight controls augment controls in individual offices, allowing users to manage their own ambient light levels and task lighting.