We are pleased to announce our Northeastern University Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Complex received an I2SL 2017 Go Beyond Award in the Buildings Category.
The GO Beyond Awards recognizes excellence in sustainability in laboratory and other high-technology facilities, such as hospitals, data centers and cleanrooms. The winning projects demonstrate unique aspects of energy and environmental sustainability which could include a new building, a major upgrade to an existing building or a campus project.
The ISEC resulted from Northeastern University’s desire to strengthen their identity as a premier research institution with the most cutting-edge science facility in Boston. The 234,000 GSF building houses four academic research disciplines—engineering, health sciences, basic sciences and computer science—and defines a dynamic and collaborative research culture.
The architectural form linked with high performance architecture, along with the implementation of the innovative energy recovery and conservation systems will allow the ISEC to use 75% less energy than a typical intensive research building (103 EUI). The building achieved a 40% reduction in water use over baseline standard with the use of low-flow plumbing and fixtures. The flush fixtures are primarily fed from harvesting rainwater collection tank unless this is unavailable/been fully used in between rainfalls. Based on the tank size installed, the system is designed to collect 99% of the rainwater that falls, representing approximately 60% of the flushing demand of the building. The ISEC is tracking LEED Gold and complies with the 2030 Commitment energy reduction targets.
Related:
Energy Savings: Northeastern University’s ISEC
The Boston Globe Reviews the ISEC
Payette + Metropolis Think Tank
Celebrating the ISEC at Northeastern University
Northeastern ISEC featured in Architectural Record
Integrated Building Science and Design at Northeastern University
Northeastern EXP features an organic pinwheel design, shaping research and classroom neighborhoods with shared community spaces radiating from the core to define each area. The building façade was tuned to achieve a 78% reduction in peak solar heat gain and a 62% reduction in cumulative solar radiation leading to energy use reductions and reduced mechanical system sizing. The use of stainless steel further leads to an embodied carbon reduction of almost one million tons when compared to aluminum while the natural stainless surface reflects light in a natural and warm tone giving the building an inherent energy.
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