Oakland County International Airport // Waterford, Michigan

The Oakland County International Airport is the tweltfh busiest general aviation airport in the world, with 120,000 takeoffs and landings annually. More than 800 aircraft are based at the airport, representing approximately $200 million in value.

The LEED Gold-registered airport terminal and administration building features indoor and outdoor LED lighting, geothermal heating and cooling, electric car charging stations, landscaping that utilizes rainwater irrigation, windspire energy generators, photovoltaic panels, solar hot water heating system, and an interior "live" wall. One of the main ways the terminal saves energy is through reduced lighting, supplemented by extensive use of glass in every area. The use of low-flow water fixtures, local and recycled materials, and wind and solar energy makes this building a wonder of "green" design and function.

The geothermal field at the airport is a 30,000 square foot horizontal system installed seven feet below ground and running along nearly all of the green space directly to the East of the building. In addition to utility cost savings provided by the geothermal field, three types of solar panel were installed at this site. The standing seam metal roof in the main lobby has a photovoltaic fim applied to the southern exposure, with the longest pieces of this film capable of 36 watts and the shorter pieces 68 watts each. The flat roof on the east side of the building has 29 solar panels, each with a 175-watt capability. The last type is a solar hot water panel on the roof that provides heat for the domestic water system.

Windspires are another unique element on the property, providing additional energy to the building by harnessing the 11-mile-per-hour average winds on the site. Three spires were installed on the east lawn, and each are capable of producing 1.2 KW each or about 2000 KWh/year.

Sustainability isn't the only interesting thing about this building. Visitors to the lobby will immediately notice the antique bi-plane, owned by Michigan Aviation Hall of Famer Henry Haigh, hanging from the rafters. The plane is on loan from the Kalamazoo Air Zoo, and is suspended over carpetry outfitting with running lights to resemble a runway. The old plane fits perfectly with modern furnishings that were built with materials reminiscent of aircraft fittings.

A beautiful conference center for tele-commuting between corporations, customs area with lock-up and full security amenities, satellite station for the Waterford Police, administration offices, and a large staff workroom and kitchen complete the functions of this fresh, modern space.

Original plans called for major renovations to the existing facility. Frank Rewold and Son Inc. proposed cost-effective alternatives, methods, and materials for consideration. The result - a new energy efficient building for approximately the same price.