Air: Fresh by Design

Fresh air is built-in at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. Our curving roof is actually the main component of an innovative ventilation system which harnesses natural air movements. Cool air from over the Allegheny River enters the building through louvers on the second floor roof. As this air heats inside the main halls, it rises along the curve of the roof and exits through another set of louvers on the higher end, just like a chimney. This natural circulation pattern creates a constant in-flow of fresh air throughout the entire building.

In addition to improving air quality, the natural ventilation system also acts as a zero-cost air conditioner. The system is put to full use whenever the outdoor temperature is between forty-five and sixty-four degrees. That covers 25% of the year on average, reducing annual energy use by approximately 333,000 kilowatt-hours. Increased controls allow rooms to be turned off when unoccupied, making cooling even more efficient for those spaces which need it.

Air quality is also a consideration in daily purchases and operations. Many common cleaning products, paints, sealants, and adhesives emit volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, which can impact lung health and cause dizziness and headaches. The David L. Lawrence Convention Center uses only no- or low-VOC emitting materials, and uses green cleaning products to keep chemicals to a minimum. Sensors in each room and throughout the whole building guarantee that indoor air quality remains at an exceptional level.