Syracuse University National Veterans Resource Center

To enhance visibility of veterans on campus and draw attendance to events, the building’s envelope incorporates a significant amount of glass to allow for transparency. Atelier Ten optimized the glazed façade to increase building energy performance, ensure occupant comfort and reduce the impact of the glass on the surrounding environment.

As the ground floor has a deep floorplate, Atelier Ten ensured optimal daylight by recommending increased ceiling heights to extend daylight deeper into the building while increasing the overhang above the ground level glazing to reduce excessive solar exposure. On the upper office floor level, the narrow floor plate, courtyard layout, and fixed external shades ensure exceptional daylighting. Atelier Ten recommended low office partitions along with light-colored ceiling finishes to evenly and efficiently distribute both daylight and electric light within the space.

Through the combination of façade optimization and energy analysis, Atelier Ten drove the 25.3% reduction in annual energy consumption. The design integrates a high-performance glazing system, efficient and daylight responsive lighting, demand controlled ventilation, and occupancy responsive HVAC controls.