Amerikas erstes “Vedisch-grünes” Studenten-Center

On February 1, 2008,opened the 50,000-square-foot Argiro Student Center, America’s first student center constructed according to the ancient principles of Vedic architecture for harmony with natural law, opened at Maharishi University of Management, a fully accredited university in Iowa.

The building also incorporates advanced green features that qualify it for LEED certification.

The Argiro Student Center features a 300-seat auditorium, two dining halls, student café, student lounge, banquet room, bookstore, mailroom, and offices for student-related activities.

The Student Center is named for Dr. Vincent and Dr. Maggie Argiro, University trustees and principal donors to the building.

Green elements to qualify for LEED certification

Energy Efficiency: Energy savings in the Argiro Student Center come from heat exchangers, which capture 80% of the heat from the air that is being exhausted from the building and use it to help heat the incoming fresh air.
Daylighting: Large, triangular windows cast light deep into the Argiro Student Center on the two upper floors. Daylighting sensors automatically turn off the lights when enough daylight is present. The building’s cupola also helps reflect light into the atrium area.

Insulation: The Argiro Student Center is insulated 50% better than average. The heating and cooling systems also have a higher-than-normal efficiency.
Nontoxic Materials: The Argiro Student Center is constructed with nontoxic materials, including over 13,000 square feet of bamboo flooring. Carpeting is green certified, and the flooring in the serving areas is Marmoleum, which is a natural linoleum made with 100% natural ingredients: linseed oil, cork, limestone, tree rosin, and natural minerals.