Kaiser Borsari Hall at Western Washington University Opens
The Holcim Foundation Awards, a global recognition program for innovative and sustainable building projects, is currently accepting entries for its 2025 cycle. Entrants must register by February 11, with completed submissions due by February 18. At Living Future, we closely follow this prestigious program for its holistic approach to honoring projects that advance regenerative building practices and support sustainable development.
Living Future has long been aligned with the Holcim Foundation’s mission. Notably, our CEO, Lindsay Baker, participated in their Fellowship program last summer, emphasizing living buildings and the transformative power of regenerative design.
As we gear up for the 2025 awards, we reflect on a standout project from the 2023 cycle: Kaiser Borsari Hall at Western Washington University, which earned a Bronze award in the North American region and opened in December 2024. Designed by Perkins&Will, the project is pursuing dual certification under Living Future’s Zero Energy and Zero Carbon certification programs.
A Sustainable Hub for STEM Education
Kaiser Borsari Hall is a mass timber structure that supports Western Washington University’s expanding STEM programs. The building fosters interdisciplinary collaboration with diverse learning environments and serves as a hub for students, faculty, and industry professionals to connect and innovate.
The design highlights regenerative building practices, with elegant wood finishes and shou sugi ban cladding—a chemical-free, fire-resistant technique for treating exterior wood. Inside, a biophilic design approach includes exposed mass timber and a central staircase that invites movement and interaction.
Energy Efficiency and Carbon Reduction
As part of seeking Zero Energy Certification and Zero Carbon Certification, the design team optimized design and construction practices to achieve an anticipated 82% reduction in energy use compared to baseline buildings. Solar panels installed on more than 75% of the roof contribute to on-site renewable energy generation.
To tackle Living Future’s rigorous certification standards, the project integrates energy storage, high-efficiency systems, and materials with reduced embodied carbon. A one-time offset will also be purchased to address remaining embodied emissions, ensuring compliance with Zero Carbon Certification guidelines.
The Ripple Effect of Regenerative Design
According to Devin Kleiner, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, LFA, Assoc. DBIA, and Director of Regenerative Design at Perkins&Will:
“Often the biggest environmental impact is not the project itself but the ripple effects it has on the institution and occupants. Kaiser Borsari demonstrates that a Net Zero Carbon, Net Zero Energy, and mass timber building is not only achievable but also sets a new standard for future projects at Western Washington University.”
This project has inspired the university to adopt regenerative building practices for future campus developments, aligning with its broader sustainability goals. Moreover, the biophilic benefits of mass timber construction enhance the health and well-being of students and faculty, making the building a model for holistic sustainability.
Celebrating Innovation
As the Holcim Foundation Awards continue to recognize groundbreaking projects, Kaiser Borsari Hall stands out as a shining example of innovation in Zero Carbon Certification, Zero Energy Certification, and regenerative building design. Projects like this pave the way for a sustainable, just, and thriving future.
Ready to take the next step in advancing sustainable design? Discover how Living Future Institute’s Zero Carbon Certification and Zero Energy Certification programs can help your projects achieve their highest sustainability goals.
Related Links
- Holcim Foundation’s Words with Winners short-film series archive of all past winners
- The project was designed by Perkins&Will
- Mortenson was the contractor and construction manager
- The team also included KPFF Consulting Engineers, McKinstry, VECA, Coughlin Porter Lundeen, AEI, Hargis, and Berger Partnership.
