Western Washington University (WWU) is poised to mark a major milestone with the completion of Kaiser Borsari Hall, a testament to the university’s commitment to sustainable innovation and transformative education. This cutting-edge facility will not only expand capacity in WWU’s growing electrical and computer engineering, energy science, and computer science programs but also set a precedent as the first publicly funded zero-energy academic building on a university campus in Washington State.

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. Constructed using all-mass timber sourced from sustainably managed forests, the building will minimize embodied carbon, supporting the university’s environmental goals and establishing it as a benchmark in sustainable construction. The structure’s eco-friendly design goes beyond aesthetics; it integrates advanced energy-saving technologies to ensure carbon neutrality and operates with a zero-energy footprint. The building’s solar panels, installed on the roof and supplemented by offsite sources, will fully power its operations, demonstrating WWU’s leadership in clean energy adoption.

The benefits of this forward-thinking project extend directly to the students, creating an enhanced academic environment that fosters experiential learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovation. Classrooms, labs, and communal spaces are meticulously planned to be inclusive and adaptable, supporting diverse learning styles and physical abilities. This commitment to accessibility and dynamic learning reflects the university’s dedication to fostering an academic culture where all students feel empowered to thrive.

The design process, led by the firm Perkins&Will, sets Kaiser Borsari Hall apart as a model of modern architecture and sustainability. According to Anthony Gianopoulos, principle-in-charge at Perkins&Will, this hall represents a transformative step for public university facilities in Washington. Its creation as an all-mass timber, carbon-neutral building epitomizes a forward-thinking approach that prioritizes both the environment and the academic experience. The building will seek certification through the International Living Future Institute, reinforcing its status as a “smart building” that exceeds LEED standards and meets the rigorous Living Building Challenge Energy Petal Certification criteria.

This ambitious project also illustrates a collaborative effort toward sustainability that extends beyond WWU. Mortenson, the general contractor and construction manager, has been deeply involved in optimizing design and construction practices to further reduce embodied and operational carbon. Michael Harder, Vice President and General Manager for Mortenson’s Seattle office, highlighted the team’s collective commitment to sustainability and implementing Contractor’s Commitment and Salmon-Safe best practices, emphasizing that projects like Kaiser Borsari Hall set a new standard for environmentally responsible construction in higher education.

Upon completion, Kaiser Borsari Hall will not only showcase sustainable design but also be a transformative space that enriches student education. Its thoughtfully designed, collaborative environment will enable future engineers, scientists, and innovators to engage deeply with emerging technologies and sustainable practices, preparing them to lead in fields critical to Washington State’s economy and the global workforce. WWU’s pioneering efforts with Kaiser Borsari Hall will inspire a new generation to prioritize environmental stewardship and community-driven progress, setting the stage for continued advancements in sustainable education and design.

Design: Perkins&Will
Photography: Kevin Scott