The Appaloosa Branch Library, Scottsdale, Ariz., is the first building constructed with color-shifting Duranar VARI-Cool coatings. Duranar VARI-Cool coatings contain pearlescent pigments that reflect the sun’s energy using ULTRA-Cool infrared-reflective coatings technology by PPG. In addition to helping buildings to stay cooler, the coatings change color according to viewing angle and how light refracts across their surface. On the Appaloosa Branch Library, the appearance of the coating changes from dark green to silver to mauve. In a static state, the coating projects a light gray-green tint that matches plants, sand and the surrounding desert landscape.
Due in part to Duranar VARI-Cool coatings, the building is expected to use 32 percent less energy than comparably sized libraries. It has qualified for LEED Gold certification by the U.S. Green Building Council. Jeremy Jones, AIA, LEED AP, a principal in DWL Architects & Planners, Inc., Phoenix, was the lead architect. The 21,000 square-foot library is owned by the city of Scottsdale.
Duranar VARI-Cool coatings are available in 17 pre-formulated standard tints. To learn more, visit www.ppgideascapes.com or call 1-888-PPG-IDEA (774-4332).
Duranar, ULTRA-Cool and VARI-Cool are trademarks of PPG Industries.
