Young At Art Museum/Broward County Library opened in May 2011 in an area of southwestern Broward County that is close to protected wetlands, including Everglades National Park. The challenge was to create a design that integrated the region’s natural beauty with functional, energy-efficient qualities; water-efficient landscaping; natural woods; and other features that demonstrate a commitment to the community, conservation and recycling. It also had to be family-friendly and offer space for multiple functions that include four art galleries, artists’ spaces, teaching areas and a full-service branch of Broward County Library.

The key elements of the Museum/Library’s innovations include: a 60,000 gallon cistern to collect rainwater used in the building’s toilets/urinals; preferred parking for low-emission, high-occupancy vehicles; landscaping that includes 17 native species of plants and 21 drought-resistant species; bicycle racks and showers for employees who pedal to work; maximum use of natural lighting for a 20 percent reduction in energy use; a white, reflective roof to reduce building heat; and the humane relocation of feral animals before/during construction. There is also an onsite “Sustainability Kiosk” educational program that features a self-guided tour of the building’s sustainable elements.

The Young At Art Museum/Broward County Library serves as an inspiration and example to other construction projects in South Florida, particularly in public buildings. The result of a thoughtful architectural process that included more than 500,000 hours of work on design documents and 11 years overall, the Museum/Library’s design was awarded two U.S. Green Building Council’s Green Awards in 2012. The awards recognize projects that create a more sustainable environment in the South Florida community.