The project is a 20,000 sf mixed use neighborhood center with a direct bridge link to rapid transit. In the down-and-out neighborhood, It provides the first new retail in years, creates a large childcare center to help working families, and provides job training for residents. Begun as a transit authority project, the non-profit owner took over the concept when it was officially dropped. $10M in CMAQ funds (Federal funds for traffic congestion mitigation and air quality) acquired by a local coalition lead by the owner were reallocated, so the funding process had to begin anew. We were instrumental in raising over $1,000,000 for sustainable design.
This project is focused on all aspects of the triple bottom line. Its goals include reducing reliance on the car (and thus reducing pollution and congestion) through close ties to bus and rail transit and improving neighborhood walk-ability. It is designed to reduce building energy use and enhance retail sales and the daycare learning process.
Many sustainable design strategies are made evident in the building. The green roof is sloped to be visible from the passing elevated train. The photovoltaic cornice is made with translucent panels so the PV cells can been seen from below. The daylighting systems are expressed by faceted laylights that help distribute light in the space while providing a visual link to the source.
Expected Benefits:
50% reduction in energy use ($1,500/month savings)
urban heat island effect
Better daycare learning environment and higher retail sales (due to daylighting)
Reduced pollution and auto congestion
Improved community access to services
Greater economic development with more dollars remaining in the neighborhood
The integrated design process was essential to creating the design, and began with an intense workshop with all parties present (owner, engineers, architects, even some funders).
Completed as Principal-in-Charge and Director of Architecture at Farr Associates. Photo and text copyright 2006 Kevin Pierce
Bethel Center
