“This new complex is truly state-of-the-art in terms of energy efficiency and sets an example for the way all new buildings should be built.”  — Dr. Joi Lin Blake, Superintendent / President, Palomar Community College District   "I believe that for most of the occupants, the most beneficial aspect of the building design is a combination of the amount of natural daylight and the volume of the space which was done to enhance passive ventilation strategies and increase storage capacity. The brightness of the spaces (without artificial lighting) and volume give the design a distinct feeling of lightness to it that is palpable.  The result has been a noticeable change in staff mood from one of tension and grumpiness to now one of happiness and enthusiasm. For me personally, the amount of daylight and the fact that I can just look up from my computer screen and see across the room to the outside where I have a view of the bio-retention basin with its lush landscaping and the surrounding hills is rejuvenating. Almost every day I find myself taking a minute to walk to the exterior windows just to look out at the landscaping and views. Just a short amount of time re-energizes me both physically and mentally, to complete the next task or finish out the day." - Dennis Astl R.A., CCM, LEED AP, Manager, Construction & Facilities Planning, Palomar Community College   "While I am happy to say that we have definitely become an example to the rest of the District, the most surprising and unanticipated outcome of the project has been that we have become an example to our local community, region and with the recent GREEN GOOD DESIGN award, the world of good sustainable design. While we are honored to serve as that example, it was not something that we ever contemplated achieving.  For me personally, the most gratifying experience has been when staff have brought their families in to take a look at where they work and to have their children, all under the age of 10, all tell me that they REALLY like the building. These are completely unsolicited comments from kids still young enough not to be jaded by stereotypes or politics, etc. To know that we have provided a place for their parents to work that children (the most honest of human beings) like is the greatest compliment we could ever receive." - Dennis Astl R.A., CCM, LEED AP, Manager, Construction & Facilities Planning, Palomar Community College