Pennovation Achieves LEED Gold Certification

The University of Pennsylvania’s Pennovation building has been awarded a LEED Gold certification under LEED 2009 New Construction & Major Renovations, surpassing the project’s original goal of achieving a LEED Silver certification.

The project transforms a former brick and mortar factory into a hub of innovation for researchers and entrepreneurs to realize their most cutting-edge ideas and exemplify Philadelphia’s commitment to global innovation and sustainable design.

Atelier Ten was involved in the earliest stages of design, working with the design team at KSS Architects, Hollwich Kushner, and stakeholders to identify the proper massing and programming for the building. Atelier Ten focused its efforts on optimizing the façade by designing the appropriate wall assembly and glazing to increase the thermal performance of the wall, ensuring ample daylight would be available in the perimeter and core spaces while offering strategies to reduce the solar insolation loads on the east, south, and west facades. Studies were also conducted to test the viability of fully naturally ventilating the main lobby spaces through stratification during optimal times of the year.

Atelier Ten’s team was led by Associate Director Larry Jones from the Atelier Ten New York office.