Women`s Humane Society building: A case study in sustainable design
- Susan Maxman Architects, Philadelphia, PA (United States)
Completed in 1994, this 24,500 ft{sup 2} (2276 m{sup 2}) building located in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, was designed by Susan Maxman Architects and integrates many sustainable design features. This paper will examine the initial design concepts, how they were integrated into the project and how they have affected the performance of the building since completion. The design process began with site planning issues that included preservation of open space and wetland habitat, integration of two courtyards into the building design, and the use of plant materials for sun control and to encourage wildlife. The Women`s Humane Society (WHS) has allowed a wildflower meadow to proliferate on much of the site and integrated a butterfly garden into the entry courtyard. Construction materials were selected using criteria that included recycled content, embodied energy, and nontoxicity. These materials include steel siding and roofing, rigid and cavity wall insulation, rubber floor mats, ceramic tile and plastic benches and toilet partitions. The design features daylighting through the use of north and south facing clerestory windows, skylights and perimeter windows. These are coordinated with lighting controls and fixtures. Daylight brings warmth and liveliness to the interior of the building in addition to energy savings.
- OSTI ID:
- 361873
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-970441-; ISBN 0-89553-212-3; TRN: IM9933%%255
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: SOLAR `97: national solar energy conference, Washington, DC (United States), 25-30 Apr 1997; Other Information: PBD: 1997; Related Information: Is Part Of Proceedings of the 22. national passive solar conference: Volume 22; Campbell-Howe, R.; Wilkins-Crowder, B. [eds.]; PB: 392 p.
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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