GLUMAC - Engineers for a sustainable future

Kirk Davis, P.E., LEED^® AP,
Portland Principal

Ecotourism. The mere mention immediately conjures up images of wide beaches with azure water complete with eco-friendly scuba diving and non-invasive hiking expeditions. A recent Google web search on "ecotourism" resulted in 4,100,000 hits. But nestled between the exotic states of Oregon and Washington the banks of the Columbia River offer a domestic alternative to ecotourism. According to Travel and Leisure magazine, even domestic destinations can be eco-friendly.

Glumac’s Portland office provided mechanical, electrical, plumbing and lighting design for the Hilton Hotel and Conference Center in Vancouver, Washington. This 226 room, seven-story hotel was opened in June of 2005, and includes a 30,000 sf conference center. This project has been submitted for LEED^®. If the project is certified it will be on of the first LEED^®certified hotels in the country. Designed in conjunction with Fletcher Farr Ayotte Architects in Portland, Oregon, the project included not only recycled steel and brick, but also highly efficient mechanical and lighting systems. Current estimates predict the building will beat Washington energy codes by more than 30%.

Innovative strategies in the mechanical, electrical, plumbing and lighting systems included:

• Carbon monoxide sensors in the parking garage to reduce airflow and fan horsepower when CO₂levels are acceptable
• Custom designed, compact fluorescent chandeliers in the ballroom, designed to include partially recycled acrylic panels
• Low mercury fluorescent lamps throughout
• Extensive dimming of lobbies, ballrooms, pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and restaurants

So the next time you are in Vancouver (America’s Vancouver that is) stop by and see how our experience gives you a better night’s sleep and a greener outlook on lodging.