University’s Marcus Hall building earns LEED Gold certification

Certification recognizes buildings designed and constructed to high standards of sustainability

San Francisco State University’s George and Judy Marcus Hall for the Liberal and Creative Arts building, which first opened in fall 2021, has earned LEED Gold certification.

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), is the most widely used green building rating system in the world. Through design and construction that improve environmental and human health, LEED-certified buildings help make the world more sustainable.

“It is a great honor for the University to receive LEED Gold certification for Marcus Hall. At their best, our buildings are an expression of our values as a campus community,” San Francisco State Vice President of University Enterprises Jason Porth said. “Obtaining LEED Gold certification demonstrates our commitment to sustainable design, construction and operations, as well as providing our students, staff and faculty with vibrant, healthy and engaging places to learn, teach, research and create.”

Marcus Hall achieved LEED Gold certification for implementing practical and measurable strategies and solutions in areas including sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. The certification reflects the University’s commitment to creating a healthier environment where students and employees can thrive. Key focal points and strategies used to achieve this certification include:

• Marcus Hall was designed in accordance with SF State’s commitment to resilient and sustainable development
• The building was constructed with recycled, renewable and durable materials
• The facility is also efficiently planned to maximize energy performance, balance heat gain and loss, induce natural ventilation and modulate solar exposure
• The landscape design minimizes maintenance by including native, drought-tolerant and well-adapted plant material to reduce water use

Marcus Hall was designed by the renowned architecture firm Mark Cavagnero Associates. The building is named after SF State alumni George Marcus and Judy Marcus, who donated the largest gift ever to the University.  

Learn more about Marcus Hall and how it’s making SF State a better place for its students and employees.