In a recent News@Northeastern article, students and faculty at Northeastern University share their impressions and experiences using the recently completed pedestrian bridge – PedX which represents the second phase of the 600,000 SF academic precinct.
The structure is provocative.
Ian Thomsen, Northeastern University
The cutting-edge academic precinct for science defines a vibrant new academic and social hub for students and allows Northeastern University to compete as a premier research institution and acts as catalyst for the long neglected urban neighborhood of Roxbury along its southern border. Constructed on an urban brownfield site consisting of an existing surface parking lot set between two garages, ISEC and the PedX represent the completion of the first two phases of the newly planned 600,000 SF academic precinct. Phase 3, the 350,000sf EXP Building, is currently in design with expected construction completion in 2022.
The pedestrian bridge project (PedX) is a symbol of Northeastern’s ongoing mission to strengthen communities by bringing them together. Using state-of-the-art engineering methods and technology, a 500-foot free-form pedestrian bridge connects Northeastern’s main campus with its new academic building on Columbus Avenue. The integration of the pedestrian crossing and landscape with the cutting-edge research buildings form one of Boston’s most exciting and dynamic new public spaces.
For how many decades has there been a need for a bridge like this: a pathway that makes the journey worthwhile.
Ian Thomsen, Northeastern University
See more photos of the PedX in the News@Northeastern article.
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