Schluter-Systems: Reno Office & Distribution Center

Reno Office
The Project:

Reno Office & Distribution Center

Certifications:

LEED Gold

Architect:

Cathexes
Architecture

Date & location:

2018 McCarran, NV


Objective

To accommodate the growing needs of our western customers, we constructed a state-of-the-art, 172,500 sq. ft. facility in McCarran, Nevada, just east of Reno. The facility includes a two-story, 22,500 sq. ft. office space and training center, along with a 150,000 sq. ft. warehouse and distribution center. Our goal was to integrate sustainable building technologies that maximize energy efficiency and minimize environmental impact while providing a comfortable and ergonomic workspace. 

Reno Office
Reno Office

 

 

To achieve this, we collaborated with a multidisciplinary team of architects, engineers, and consultants specializing in green building technologies, ensuring that the facility would serve as a benchmark for sustainable corporate construction. 


Challenge

Conscious of our environmental footprint, we implemented measures to significantly reduce energy and water consumption. We also prioritized employee well-being by designing a workspace where every workstation benefits from natural light and fresh air circulation. 

 

Throughout construction, we employed controlled-site practices to maintain sustainability, including tire washing stations to prevent debris spread, on-site water filtration and reuse, and extensive recycling of construction materials. Additionally, we ensured that all materials—sealants, tiles, and finishes—were free from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and inspected for off-gassing prior to use. 

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Solution

Sustainable Heating & Cooling 

Geothermal System: The building is heated and cooled entirely by a geothermal system consisting of 36 underground wells. This system transfers energy between the earth and the facility via hydronic heating and cooling, dramatically reducing energy demand. 

Earth Heat Exchanger: A 200-ft long, 3-ft diameter "Canadian tunnel" preconditions fresh air before it enters the facility, reducing the workload on HVAC systems. 

Schluter®-BEKOTEC Modular Screed System: Provides highly efficient in-floor radiant heating. The system reacts four times faster than traditional systems, operating at lower temperatures for reduced energy consumption. 

Schluter Reno

Energy Efficiency & Cost Savings 

Traditional office buildings in the region typically incur energy costs of $1.35–$1.55 per sq. ft. Our facility operates at approximately $0.44 per sq. ft., a 70–75% savings. 

  • Energy Usage (6-month period): 
  • Electricity: 220,048 kWh 
  • Gas: 201 Therms 
  • Water: 247,302 gallons 

Natural Lighting & Air Quality 

High-performance skylights maximize natural daylight in warehouses and work areas. 

Automated lighting activates only as needed, reducing energy waste. 

Living wall with 200+ plants enhances indoor air quality by absorbing CO2, adding oxygen, and filtering VOCs. 

CO2-controlled ventilation system maintains a comfortable indoor air quality at 650 ppm (well below regulatory limits). 

Water & Resource Management 

Solar water heating panels provide hot water for the facility. 

Rainwater and construction water reuse reduced initial water demand and long-term consumption. 

White reflective roof mitigates heat absorption, reducing cooling demands. 


Schluter-Reno

Result

The Reno Office & Distribution Center exemplifies Schluter’s commitment to sustainable building practices. By integrating geothermal energy, solar heating, advanced ventilation, and extensive tile applications, we have created a highly efficient, environmentally responsible facility that benefits both the company and the community. 

Reno Office

Products used

Schluter®-BEKOTEC

Schluter®-
BEKOTEC

1-3/8” (35 mm)-thick modular screed panel

DITRA-XL UNCOUPLING MEMBRANE 3'3" X 53'3" = 175 SF

DITRA-XL UNCOUPLING MEMBRANE 3'3" X 53'3" = 175 SF

Uncoupling and waterproofing membrane

Schluter®-KERDI

Schluter®-
KERDI

Bonded waterproofing and vapor-retardant membrane

Schluter®-KERDI-BOARD

Schluter®-
KERDI-BOARD

Waterproof, multifunctional tile substrate and building panel

Schluter®-KERDI-DRAIN

Schluter®-
KERDI-DRAIN

Point drain with integrated bonding flange

RONDEC/QUADEC CONNECTOR 3/8" FOR ALUM PROFILES

RONDEC/QUADEC CONNECTOR 3/8" FOR ALUM PROFILES

Finishing and edge-protection profile with a rounded reveal surface

Schluter®-DILEX-AHK

Schluter®-
DILEX-AHK

Cove-shaped profile for inside wall corners and floor/wall transitions

Schluter®-SCHIENE

Schluter®-
SCHIENE

Finishing and edge-protection profile with minimum reveal

Schluter®-RENO-RAMP/-K

Schluter®-
RENO-RAMP/-K

Transition profile for reducing to lower elevations in commercial spaces


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