Ian Adamson and Jeff DeGregorio along with Andrew Magre from Cornell University presented at the Tradeline Space Strategies Conference on October 1st and 2nd 2012. In the presentation, “Research: Maximizing “space value” with rationalized renovations and reprogramming,” the presenters answered the question, “How do you choose between competing space reuse initiatives to maximize space value for science programs?” The presentation took the audience through a 16 month long utilization and planning study for the College of Engineering at Cornell University which started in late 2010.
Key takeaways from the presentation include the following:
1) Processes for analyzing existing space utilization: The panel explained the various tools for determining the multiple qualifiers for measuring utilization. From the shoes on the ground physical surveys to the analysis of the various databases the University already had on hand.
2) Representing techniques for representing large data sets: The challenge the architects faced was how to the present the large amount of data that was collected in formats that would be easily understood by the senior administration so that very complex issues could be represented in a clear and concise manner. The panel walked the audience through many examples of the tools used by the team, successfully and some not so.
3) Strategies for uncovering strategic areas for renovation and increased Capacity-Chunk Theory: How to identify spaces using the analysis and determining more than a couple of rooms that can be renovated with a scale that reduces square foot costs. Clearing a floor or a wing of a building that provides for new faculty hires and at the same time reinforces a master plan for the complex of buildings that support renewal on a limited budget.
Other issues that were part of the presentation were discussions around ‘fit to function’ of existing facilities, incorporation of deferred maintenance, departmental connections and evolving synergies, realities of the first two implementation projects.
Cape Cod Community College’s Frank and Maureen Wilkens Science and Engineering Center is a net-positive energy building designed to transform the heart of campus.
The project approaches sustainability through a holistic and global approach, implementing a range of moves including passive solar shading overhangs, air-source heat pumps, high performance materials with low embodied carbon and the expansion of the range of thermal comfort and lighting power density. Combined with on-site photovoltaics, the project achieves net-positive energy use.
The project’s thermally modified wood rainscreen façade is a study of the modern expression of vernacular Cape Cod architecture while reducing embodied carbon. Early lifecycle assessments identified the immense carbon savings of wood over fiber cement. The design team did not stop there, furthering reductions by peeling back unnecessary finishes like carpet and ceilings. Together, these decisions enabled a 19% reduction in embodied carbon.
#earthweek #designalways #buildingscience #performalism #netpositive #capecodmodernism #capecod #newengland
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