Institute of Noetic Sciences

Novato, California - 2000

When the Institute of Noetic Sciences purchased  existing buildings on  beautiful land in Northern Marin County, California for their new non-profit headquarters and retreat center, they hired Van der Ryn Architects for master planning, interior design and space planning.  The intention was to create an enriching, healthy and inspiring sustainable office and conference environment on the land. An innovative, place-based approach to master planning and design were used.  Both the process and the resulting environment are grounded in a deep understanding of the place, the human community, and state-of-the-art principles and practices of healthy, sustainable design and community building. Key features include:

• Certified sustainable wood for lumber and trim
• Life Master 2000 zero-VOC paint
• Reused shelving
• Cork, sisal, marmoleum and wool carpet floor coverings
• Refinished existing redwood trim
• Captured daylight throughout the buildings
• Refurbished office system furniture with Eco-fabric