Bonnycastle

Bonnycastle is a four-story 60,000 square-foot residence hall that is part of comprehensive renovations to the 1950s McCormick Road Residence Housing complex at the University of Virginia.

UVA partnered with Clark Nexsen to deliver a reimagined housing complex with new energy efficient systems, a modern aesthetic, and more social spaces for students. Bonnycastle opened in August 2018 and achieved LEED Silver certification from the USGBC. Retaining 97% of the existing structure and envelope lends credence to the saying that the most sustainable building is the one you don’t build.

The Castle, a popular UVA hangout was given a major overhaul. The Castle and its surrounding outdoor plaza are now a vibrant hub with sustainable menu choices that reflect the preferences of today’s students. Bonnycastle received 11 out of a maximum of 19 “Optimize Energy Performance” points which is impressive for a building with intensive food service.

Nearly all occupied spaces now have exterior views and potable water use was reduced by 44%. The indoor air quality was improved with a dedicated outside air system that provides fresh filtered air to each room.

The actual building is performing better than the model -- a pleasant surprise for the UVA project team with the 2019 actual energy consumption coming in at 42% savings compared to benchmark. Bonnycastle residents won’t be able to brag they survived a hot August without air conditioning, but the project ensures the legacy of first year students living on McCormick Road for decades to come.