The first plans included the idea of a separate addition of the south existing Lee Hall. Thomas Phifer’s main goal was to create a “Light, opened and well ordered structure.” The goal was also to create an eco-friendly space. Therefore, the decision was to utilize recycled materials. To serve its purpose, the architects planned on increasing the overall Lee complex by 50%. The students and faculty collaborated on proposing the designs for studio work stations. Architect Harvey Grantt also contributed to the project by making recommendations towards the layout of the existing structure. The architects working on the Lee III project included Thomas Phifer, Partners of New York and McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture of Greenville. The main architect, Thomas Phifer a native of Columbia, SC is a former graduate of Clemson University with the degree in architecture. Phifer created his own architecture firm called Thomas Phifer and Partners. Currently, Thomas Phifer's offices are located in New York City. For several years, Phifer worked for an architect Richard Meier. As a result, Phifer’s architectural style is influenced by Meier’s work. He has received American Institute of Architects Honor Awards and American Architecture Awards. The design of Lee III concentrated on its sustainability. Lee is able to offset its energy use with the energy it generates. This zero-net energy consumption is based on its exterior and interior design as well as its cooling system. Lee III’s heating and cooling system consists of 42 geothermal wells installed below its floors at a depth of 440 feet below the ground. The geothermal wells create its heating a cooling mechanical system. The openness of the building allows for natural ventilation. A system of mechanical windows controls the temperature of the building. When the threshold level is reached by the humidity and temperature, the windows close and stabilize the temperature. The ideal temperature of the building is 59 degrees Fahrenheit. Lee III also contains monitors to stabilize its room temperature. Its Sedum/Garden Roof, the largest in the southeastern US, cools the building by maintaining and controlling the runoff water. The natural light in Lee III comes from the placements and mechanics of the interior and exterior skylights. A total of 53 skylights are installed in the building. This allowed for 98% of its space to have exterior views in different directions. The materials for the building were made close to the construction site, 500 miles or less from the building. All materials used were according to VOC’s standards. The wood used was certified and harvested by the Forestry Stewardship Council.