The new chapter went a house LEED. I mean that’s for Pi Beta Phi at Mississippi State University. For it has become LEED-certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). That’s making this the first sorority house in the U.S. with such distinction.

Pi Beta Phi House

Pi Beta Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation’s (FHC) development team directed Pryor and Morrow Architects of Columbus, Mississippi. For they designed the chapter house at 110 Robert L. Jones Drive, Starkville, Mississippi. All to the guidelines set by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) to achieve LEED certification. The 16,000 square foot home maximizes open space, uses indigenous landscaping and bicycle storage. In addition, plumbing and air conditioning systems incorporate water-use reduction features. The use of insulation and window glazing. For it also optimizes energy performance.

Specific design elements used in achieving LEED certification. For they are renewable materials and recycled content in finishes. Also compact fluorescent lighting and drought tolerant plants. All which minimizes water needs and allows lush green landscaping without the need for irrigation.

Opening Doors Soon

The house will open its doors for members when they return to school in August.

“We are honored to be among the most elite of properties who have achieved LEED certification. By having third party verification through USGBC, we are confident we have delivered a home that is not only a good steward of the environment. However, it is also providing a healthy atmosphere for future Pi Phi women.” That was said by Leah FitzGerald, Assoc AIA, LEED AP. She is a board member of Fraternity Housing Corporation. The one who managed the project during construction said.

“The added distinction of being the First LEED certified sorority in the United States. For it establishes us as a leader in sustainability. That’s an achievement in which we are extremely proud.”