BOUDREAUX is excited to announce that the Samuel J. Cadden Chapel at Clemson University was awarded Honorable Mention in the category of New Construction/Substantial Renovation Under 5,000SF by the American Institute of Architecture (AIA). The AIA bestows awards on projects that radiate a quality of excellence and elevate the standard of outstanding architecture.
Connected to nature and its campus surroundings, the Samuel J. Cadden Chapel utilizes natural materials and an expressive wood structure to create a welcome place of respite for both celebration and remembrance. Entering from the Library Green, the visitor sheds the bustle and stresses of college life and passes into the serenity of the light-filled gathering place with its inspiring landscape and memorial garden views. Taking advantage of its hillside setting and opening to the garden, the lower-level gallery and prayer rooms provide space for small groups and individual reflection furthering the physical and spiritual connection to the natural setting.
In support of Clemson University’s Sustainability Action Plan and the Clemson University Commission on Sustainability goal to make the University carbon neutral by the year 2030, the Samuel J. Cadden Chapel design integrates a geothermal heating and cooling system. The geothermal mechanical system relies on the earth’s constant temperature for heating and cooling. Ten 350 feet deep geothermal wells were drilled early in construction and are below the walkways and grassed area to the north of the main entry. They pump the condenser water through a closed loop system. The ground serves as a heat exchanger to cool or warm the water depending on the season. The loop then passes through the heat pumps in the building to allow the heat pumps to cool and heat the building efficiently. The system is highly efficient and reduces the reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, the geothermal heat pumps eliminate the need for air cooled compressors and unsightly air-cooled condensing units are not required around the sacred building and landscape. Geothermal heat pump energy cost savings can reach 30-70 percent for heating and 20-50 percent for cooling, thereby reducing long term operating costs.
