On the shores of Offatts Bayou in Galveston, Texas, a five-story, 60,000-square-foot-building rises above the neighboring structures. The building, Sea Scout Base Galveston, is a state-of-the-art learning center designed to cultivate youth interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) topics, as well as sailing. Starting as modest design in 2007, the $40 million complex was transformed into a high-tech reality thanks to a partnership with Charles Doolin, an avid donor and supporter of the Sea Scouts, a venturing program offered by the Boy Scouts of America.

The complex features enough facilities to house 200 to 300 Sea Scouts who attend the programs. Additionally, the complex has many classrooms and offices, as well as an outdoor space including dock space for the large fleet of sail and powerboats and a pool large enough to conduct swimming tests and scuba certification tests.

While it was important to the designers to create a high-tech, interactive space, they also requested a building that would meet LEED^® Platinum certification. A showcase of energy efficient technologies, the building features LED lights that turn on upon entrance and shut off when an area is vacant. Additionally, a rooftop garden reduces heat inside the building, provides fresh herbs for the cafeteria and allows for the harvesting of rainwater.

Due to its close proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, the architects designed the building to withstand up to a Category 5 hurricane. Utilizing YKK AP America’s ProTek® line of impact-resistant entrances, windows and curtain wall, Sea Scout Base Galveston was fortified with products that were designed and fully tested to meet the hurricane impact requirements of the International Building Code.

The YHS 50 TU storefront system and Model 35H entrances protect the buildings inhabitants while performing highly in demanding conditions. Additionally, the YHC 300 OG curtain wall and YOW 225 TUH windows are also designed and tested to provide an impact-resistant solution for structures in areas that often face hurricanes.

Starting as a dream, the marine and maritime learning destination is now a reality, welcoming dents from across the United States. As the programs continue to grow and inspire children to take an interest in the sea, Sea Scout Base Galveston is equipped to weather any storm and stand tall for years to come.

The Houston Business Journal honored the building in its 2015 Landmark Awards. The awards recognize real estate projects that make a significant impression on the Houston landscape and improve the look, feel and image of the city.