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From Green to Gold… and Platinum!

October 21, 2025

Our Building Performance Studio continues to guide project teams in implementing sustainable and resilient design across sectors and locations. Recently we finalized LEED certifications for several higher education buildings and offices for philanthropic leaders in our hometown of Pittsburgh, PA.

Hillman Library: LEED Platinum

The University of Pittsburgh‘s Hillman Library has achieved LEED Platinum certification. The 250,000-square-foot renovation introduced energy-efficient systems, a 250 kW rooftop solar array, and biophilic design elements. evolveEA contributed to the project’s strategic planning and sustainable design consulting, helping ensure the library’s renovation not only modernized its facilities but also reinforced its role as an eco-conscious academic hub. To learn more, visit: Hillman Library | Sustainability.

Hillman Library [©University of Pittsburgh]

Recreation and Wellness Center: LEED Gold

Designed with sustainability in mind, the state-of-the-art facility at the University of Pittsburgh provides abundant natural light, energy efficiencies, stormwater management, and biophilic design. evolveEA played a key role, shepherding the project through the LEED certification process to ensure environmental performance and resilience. Strategically located at the heart of campus, the Center fosters connection and community while upgraded utilities infrastructure supports future growth, campus master plan objectives, and Pitt’s commitment to holistic student wellness. To learn more, visit: https://www.reccenter.pitt.edu/.

Recreation and Wellness Center [©University of Pittsburgh]

Mellon Institute Neuroscience Lab: LEED GOLD

The Mellon Institute of Neuroscience Lab at Carnegie Mellon University has achieved LEED Gold certification, underscoring its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. This certification reflects the lab’s adherence to rigorous standards in energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable building practices, aligning with CMU’s broader environmental goals. evolveEA played a key role in guiding the lab through the LEED certification process, providing expertise in sustainable design strategies and performance optimization.

Mellon Institute Neroscience Lab [©IKM]

Richard King Mellon Foundation Headquarters: LEED Gold

The RK Mellon Foundation Headquarters achieved LEED v4 ID+C Gold Certification, reflecting its transformation into a resilient, healthy, and energy-efficient workplace. evolveEA led the certification process, advancing adaptive reuse strategies that delivered major reductions in energy and water use while promoting transparency and material health. Check out our project highlights to learn more.

Mellon Foundation Headquarters Interior by GBBN

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