Race to Zero - Synergy by Julie Carbone

SYNERGY RACE TO ZERO SMALL MULIFAMILY JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY 2018

V1 PROJECT REPORT VOLUME 1:

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION

PAGE NUMBER

PROJECT REPORT

ARCHITECTURE DESIGN

INTERIOR DESIGN

ENERGY ANALYSIS

CONSTRUCTABILITY

FINANCIAL ANALYSIS

ENVELOPE PERFORMANCE & DURABILITY

INDOOR AIR QUALITY

MEP

INNOVATION

APPENDICES

RENDERINGS

CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS

ENERGY ANALYSIS

FINANCIAL ANALYSIS

TABLE OF FIGURES

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

PROJECT REPORT FIGURE 0.0.1: SITE PLAN FIGURE 0.0.2: ZONING DASHBOARD FIGURE 0.0.3: TYPICAL ZONE 4A CONSTRUCTION DASHBOARD FIGURE 0.0.4: SOLAR VARIABLE DIAGRAM FIGURE 0.0.5: WIND VARIABLE DIAGRAM FIGURE 0.0.6: BREWERY DEMOGRAPHICS GRAPH FIGURE 0.0.7: BREWERY AGE BREAKDOWN GRAPH FIGURE 0.0.8: HOUSEHOLD INCOME DISTRIBUTION CHART FIGURE 0.0.9: SOURCE OF INCOME CHART FIGURE 0.0.10: MARTIAL STATUS CHART FIGURE 0.0.11: NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS IN BREWERYTOWN PIE CHART

ARCHITECTURE DESIGN FIGURE 1.0: MODULAR UNITS BREAKDOWN FIGURE 1.1: PREFABRICATION PHASES FIGURE 1.2: BUILDING SYSTEMS FIGURE 1.3: PLANTING PLAN FIGURE 1.4: GREYWATER SYSTEM FIGURE 1.5: SEFAIRA DAYLIGHTING ANALYSIS

INTERIOR DESIGN FIGURE 2.0: 1-BR UNIT DAYLIGHTING STRATEGIES FIGURE 2.1: ADAPTABILITY DESIGN OPTIONS FIGURE 2.2: INTERIOR RENDERS FIGURE 2.3: MATERIALITY FOR A TYPICAL UNIT FIGURE 2.4: APPLIANCES ENERGY USAGE FIGURE 2.5: APPLIANCES ENERGY CHART FIGURE 2.6: LAUNDRY APPLIANCES ENERGY USAGE FIGURE 2.7: DRYER APPLIANCE ENERGY SPECIFICATION FIGURE 2.8: WASHING MACHINE ENERGY SPECIFICATION

ENERGY ANALYSIS FIGURE 3.0: HERS INDEX SCORE BEFORE RENEWABLES FIGURE 3.1: HERS INDEX SCORE AFTER RENEWABLES FIGURE 3.2: INDEX ADJUSTMENT FACTOR EQUATION FIGURE 3.3: ESTIMATED ANNUAL ENERGY COST CHART FIGURE 3.4: ESTIMATED ANNUAL ENERGY CONSUMPTION CHART

TABLE OF FIGURES

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

CONSTRUCTABILITY FIGURE 4.0: MODULAR UNITS BREAKDOWN FIGURE 4.1: CORRIDOR CONSTRUCTION DETAIL FIGURE 4.2: FLOOR TO UNIT CONSTRUCTION DETAIL FIGURE 4.3: UNIT TO UNIT PLAN DETAIL FIGURE 4.4: SIPS EFFICIENCY DIAGRAM FIGURE 4.5: SIPS UNIT DESIGN

FINANCIAL ANALYSIS FIGURE 5.0: INCOME AND RENT DASHBOARD FIGURE 5.1: CONSTRUCTION COST SUMMARY FIGURE 5.2: RENT PER UNITS CHART FIGURE 5.3: TOTAL RENT CHART FIGURE 5.4: FINANCIAL ANALYSIS FOR RENT PRICES CHART FIGURE 5.5: RENT ANALYSIS CHART FIGURE 5.6: RENT PER SQFT CHART FIGURE 5.7: CONSTRUCTION COSTS SUMMARY FIGURE 5.8: RENT COMPARISON BAR GRAPH

ENVELOPE PERFORMANCE & DURABILITY FIGURE 6.0: SIPS WALL EXPLODED FIGURE 6.1: ELEVATIONS FIGURE 6.2: OUR CONSTRUCTION DASHBOARD FIGURE 6.3: WALL AND WINDOW SECTION FIGURE 6.4: FOUNDATION DETAIL THERMAL INSULATION FIGURE 6.5: WINDOW DETAIL SECTION FIGURE 6.6: RAIN SCREEN DETAIL SECTION FIGURE 6.7: WINDOW DETAIL PLAN FIGURE 6.8: RENT COMPARISON BAR GRAPH

INDOOR AIR QUALITY FIGURE 7.0: ZONING DIAGRAM FIGURE 7.1: MECHANICAL SECTION FIGURE 7.2: HVAC DIAGRAM FIGURE 7.3: RCP SUPPLY AND RETURN

MEP FIGURE 8.0: DRAINAGE ROOF PLAN FIGURE 8.1: WALL SECTION OF DRAINAGE SYSTEM FIGURE 8.2: SCUPPER BOX WALL DETAIL SECTION FIGURE 8.3: WATER HEATER DIAGRAM FIGURE 8.4: TYPICAL CONDITION PLUMBING

PROJECT REPORT INTRODUCTION

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

PROJECT SUMMARY Synergy is a project that incorporates dynamic design and innovative technologies, adapting to its surrounding environment to become a living, breathing machine. Synergy’s goal is to create a living environment that effectively benefits the city and its occupants by generating a better quality of life while achieving a net zero energy outcome.

RELEVANCE OF PROJECT TO THE GOALS OF THE COMPETITION Through the use of unconventional HVAC technologies which includes, the enVerid HLR ventilator, passive and daylighting strategies through site exploration, and the economic and eco-efficiency of modular construction, Synergy delivers net zero energy ready capabilities. The project also utilizes green roofs and solar strategies, and a roof solar array, to achieve net zero. Also introducing native flora to the site, alleviates the issues of hardscape while also naturally cutting down on air pollutants in the surrounding air, thus further benefiting the community and the occupants.

DESIGN STRATEGY AND KEY POINTS Daylighting Strategy Synergy’s approach to adapt to the varying environment lead to the introduction of the courtyard. This approach is vital to the schematic planning, natural daylighting strategies, and occupancy comfort of Synergy. Maximizing north natural daylighting is important for this climate, and the courtyard provides the units in the north sufficient natural light. This planning, through energy modeling analysis, resulted in at least 65%68% natural daylighting within living spaces. This percentage of daylighting is favorable for using less energy to light these spaces during the day.

Modular Strategy In conjunction with the modular construction of each unit, SIPS wall construction adds another layer of ingenuity and structural integrity. Through energy analysis, the structural insulation will be increased to an R-Value of around 45, for maximum thermal efficiency, as well as an air-tight envelope. In turn, this increase will cut down on energy consumption due to temperature controls within each unit. For insulation throughout the building the R-Values exceed the design goals of net zero ready such as: Walls R-45, Floors R-25, Accessible Flat Roof R-56. within the building.

Mechanical Strategy

Further development of the project resulted in the strategic planning of the mechanical cores sandwiched between a set of units. These cores were placed closest to the areas requiring plumbing and mechanical equipment. Thanks to modular construction, a stacking effect is achieved, thus minimizing the run of the plumbing and duct work throughout the units. Synergy’s harmonious relation between design and technology introduces the utilization of an HLR ventilation system, in conjunction with a conventional VRF Fan Coil system. This technology is already being used in large scale apartments and commercial buildings and has yielded favorable results in cutting down energy costs. This system also decreases the size of the required air handling units and duct work throughout the building. With this new technology implication, it eliminates the need for more conventional ventilation openings, allowing for a more thermally efficient envelope. In turn, this system allows for reduction on energy consumption and costs by 30-40%.

PROJECT REPORT

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

INTRODUCTION

FINAL SCORE Project Data

• • • • •

2601 Poplar Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19130 [Climate Zone 4A] 34,626 sqft. 36 Units (two-bedroom, one-bedroom, Studio) + Cafe HERS Score: 0 (with renewable energy calculations) Calculated EUI: 9.7 kBTU/ft2/yr Source

Technical Specifications

• • • •

Foundation & Exterior Wall Construction: Concrete Trench Fill Foundation with Above Grade Structurally Insulated Panels (SIPS) 2 3/8” IMP + 2.5” EPS + 8” poured-in-place concrete + 2.5” EPS + 5/8” GWB = 16” (overall R-44.2) Roof Insulation = R-56; Window Performance = U-Factor: 0.21, Wall = R-40 HVAC specifications = VRF Fan Coil Central System accompanied with an HLR enVerid System.

PROJECT REPORT

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

MEET THE CREW

TEAM INFORMATION Students will participate in the Race to Zero Student Design Competition as part of a two semester undergraduate design studio for academic credit. The design studios (Design 9 and 10) are part of Philadelphia Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bachelor of Architecture program and include both a design and research (thesis) component. Through a collaborative and multidisciplinary approach the studio will explore the challenges associated with this evolving typology including design, technological, and performance-based innovation, sustainable and best practices, cost effectiveness, energy efficiency (with and without renewable energy sources), and contextual responsiveness. Studio work will be separated into two phases to align with submission and technical requirements associated with the Race to Zero Student Design Competition and an informed integrated delivery platform. Phase 1 will focus on fundamental site and building design principals, an integrated design process, the principals associated with a Net Zero building enclosure and the essential elements of a Net Zero building. During this phase students will also complete the DOE Building Science Training Course (on line) and become familiar with REM/Rate and other energy modeling software. Phase 2 will focus on the technical design and documentation requirements of specific core construction practices, structural integration, and methods and materials of construction. Design and technical development and supporting documentation not covered during the fall term will become the framework of Design 10 which is offered in the spring.

AUSTIN

DIMARE TEAM LEAD Bachelor of Architecture, 2018

JULIE

VICTORIA

JUNIOR LEAD

Bachelor of Architecture, 2019

Bachelor of Science in Architecture, 2018

JAMES

JOHN

COST ANAYLSIS + MATERIAL CONSULTATION

ADJUNCT PROFESSOR

CARBONE

TESORIERO

FEBRIZIO

HUBERT Architect, AIA

Bachelor in Construction Management, 2018

PROJECT REPORT

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

INTRUSTRY PARTNERS

JOHN HUBERT

CALLAHAN - WARD

BREWERYTOWN

Design Builders & Construction Managers

Developers

Neighborhood Action Committee

PETTIT

BRUCE E.BROOKES

Architect and Civil Engineers

Consulting Engineers

ASSOCIATES

GROUP

SYNERGY

COMPANIES

& ASSOCIATES

SHARSWOOD NAC

PROJECT REPORT SPONSERS

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

PROJECT REPORT

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

PROJECT INTRODUCTION

PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

ADAPTIBILITY Through further designing and planning, the units in Synergy have undergone major changes. The size of each unit has decreased in overall square footage by 60%. This is all possible by the utilization of multi-functionary factors, such as moveable walls, built-in wall storage, and hidden wall furniture. This strategic move also allows the units themselves to adapt to changes in daylighting, and occupancy functions.

MODULARITY. To decrease site degradation as well as building costs Synergy is based upon a prefabricated modular unit that will be sectioned off and brought to the site.

PROJECT REPORT

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

PROJECT INTRODUCTION

DAYLIGHTING Throughout the process of design development the team redesigned the building to make sure to maxmize on the daylighting that the site offers. With this reasoning the courtyard scheme was born. The team angled certain sides of the building to make sure that the units had at least 37+ lumen aspect ratio into the depth of the unit.

SYNERGY AS COMPARED TO A HUMAN BODY Through the development of Synergy we began to characterize the mechanical, eletrical, and other systems as well as the design of the building envelope to things comparable to the human body. Each part of the building begins to take on a human quality that allows for the building to become this living, breathing machine. Through understandings of vital organs such as the heart, lungs, eyes, kidneys, and skin we understand how to make a building become a successful living organism. These decisions will allow its inhabitants to be happy, healthy organisms as well.

INTEGRATION OF GREEN SPACE Throughout the whole project we wanted to make sure that green space had a key role in Synergy. We were able to utilize 20% of the site to green space for the community of the multi-family apartment building. Through these spaces we created a microclimate which begin to interact with our building systems to create better thermal comfort throughout the summer months and into the winter months.

PROJECT REPORT

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

PROJECT INTRODUCTION

SITE ANALYSIS BREWERYTOWN BACKGROUND In the 19th century Brewerytown was named for being home to many of Philadelphia’s breweries. The town underwent many changes throughout the years. Once all breweries, the town transitioned into a thriving residential community. Within the last decade Philadelphia has experienced a 42% growth in population specifically regarding young persons within the ages of 18-29. Within the last three years development in this area has increased to over 116%. Due to its location Brewerytown is an up and coming neighborhood of Philadelphia. Close proximity to the Fairmount Park and to Center City this town with a population of 39,040, is listed as one of Philadelphia’s most desired neighborhoods to live in. CHOOSING BREWERYTOWN FOR OUR SITE Based upon these findings of an ever growing, residential area, with over 7,000 family households already existing and a 42% growth in millennial population, we concluded that the site and new construction must be used for mixed-family residential apartment housing. Therefore allowing this area to become a completely diverse sector meeting the standard for Philadelphia region and Brewerytown, specifically.

POPULATION OF BREWERYTOWN

GENDER

39,070

MEDIAN AGE

45% 55%

HOUSEHOLDS FAMILY

NON FAMILY FAMILY

WITH KIDS

HOUSEHOLDS INCOME

7,617 6,244

26.6k

4,567

OCCUPATIONAL EMPOLYMENT

white collar

66.5%

blue collar

33.5%

INTENDED OCCUPANTS

ACCOMPLISHED

THE

YOUNG

THE

Individuals in their 40s to 60s who have been around the block, seeking a life style that adapts to them.

Married, engaged, dating, or friends; suitable for the two individuals ready to share a studio or split a two bedroom unit.

Individuals in their 20s to 30s always on the go, and ready to adapt to the next new thing.

Tailored for the smaller or growing family seeking a more eco-friendly lifestyle.

PROFESSIONAL

“DUO”

PROFESSIONAL

FAMILY

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

PROJECT INTRODUCTION BREWER YTOWN GARDEN S

OUR SITE: CONTEXTUAL ANALYSIS The site resides in a heavily urban lot, in the neighborhood of Brewerytown, Philadelphia, PA. The lot is a ridged rectangular shape with a small overlap of 33 feet at the very north. This site rests in an urban landscape, thus possessing strong site potential and adaptability through surrounding context. This strong potential is also due to the surrounding edge conditions, which only the north side of the site is bordered by existing buildings, an existing Indigo Bike Sharing Station on Poplar Street, and a bust stop on 26th Street.

LOT LOCATION

Poplar and Taney Street/Poplar and 26th Street

SIZE

119

20,127 sqft

ORIENTATION

South (Poplar Street) East (26th Street) West (Taney Street)

123

STREET

USE

MIXED MIXED RESIDENTIAL

TANEY

LOBBY

20,127

AMENITIES

SQFT MAIL ROOM 2 377 SF

1 Not Enclosed

3614 SF

CAFE STORAGE 9 86 SF

CAFE 4 1477 SF

180

POPLAR

BIKE STORAGE

26TH ST REET

LAUNDRY ROOM

PROJECT REPORT

Bus and Bike Conveniently located on the site is a SEPTA number 15 Bus stop, as well as a Philadelphia city Indigo bike share station, on Poplar Street. [Proposed]

161 SF

STREET

Café Located on Poplar and 26th street, this new café will generate economy, and facilitate a space that nurtures social cohesion. By-Right (Keeping within the constraints of Zoning Codes)

Figure 0.0.1

OUR SITE: ZONING TYPE

CMX-2

MAX. HEIGHT

Small scale neighborhood commercial and residential mixed use

38’

MAX. OCCUPIED AREA

80%

MIN. PERIMETER

5’

Figure 0.0.2

Our site located on the corner of Popular and Taney Street was listed as: CMX-2. Under the zoning code description for that category the site must be used as a mixed-use commercial and residential lot. The corner of Popular and Taney is densely populated with residences which directed our attention to the other corner of the lot. Under these constraints along with the analysis of the site we decided that a cafe was best suited on the corner of Poplar and 26th Street where it is accompanied with other commercial facilities. Due to the nature of being a corner site we are allowed to occupy 80% of the site and designate the other 20% to vegetation which Synergy meets. The maximum height for the lot is 38 feet with a minimum setback perimeter of 5 feet.

PROJECT REPORT

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

PROJECT INTRODUCTION

OUR SITE: ENVIRONMENTAL CEILING R-VALUE

WOOD FRAME WALL R-VALUE

MASS WALL R-VALUE

5/10

SLAB R-VALUE/DEPTH

CRAWLSPACE WALL R-VALUE

10/2FT

FENESTRATION U-FACTOR

10/13

0.35

Figure 0.0.3

REGIONAL WIND VARIABLE JUNE 21

Prevailing south western winds dominate the site.

JUNE 21

8:32 PM

5:32 AM

SEPT. 21

6:59PM NW

SEPT. 21 6:47 AM W

N NW

DEC. 21

4:38 PM

WINTER W

DEC. 21 N

Summer

7:18 AM

Summ

S W

N NW SW

SOLAR VARIABLE

Figure 0.0.4

Summer

W Dominated by southern light the units on the southern facade maximize on daylighting. As seen in figure [Figure 0.0.4] the site gets ample amounts of light throughout the year.

NW SWNW

SUMMER W

E E

NW SW SW

Fall Summer

NE SE SE

S S

500

NE SE

SPRING W Fall

-500

N NW SW

-1,000 J

Fall

D Fall

Fall

NW SW

Fall

N NE SE

W Climate Zone 4A: is defined as Mixed â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Humid; Philadelphia falls under the northern periphery of the humid subtropical climate zone. The above dashboard in yellow [Figure 0.0.3] lists the typical construction requirements for this climate zone. Philadelphia is a heat dominated S region with mean cooling days amounting to 1,307 and mean heating degree days racking up to 4,920. SW

N NE

NW SW

N NW

HEATING AND COOLING DAYS

Summer

NE SE NE

Summer

CLIMATE ZONE

Summ

N N NE SE

Summer

NE SE

FALL

Fall

Figure 0.0.5

PROJECT REPORT

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

PROJECT INTRODUCTION

OUR SITE: THE PEOPLE Brewerytown Demographics

Brewerytown Demographics

Statistic Population Population Density Median Age

Brewerytown 39,070 13,277 37.6

Philadelphia 1,559,938 11,626 33.9

Pennsylvania 12,783,977 277 40.6 Figure 0.0.6

DFDASFS

Brewerytown Age Breakdown

M F

Brewerytown is an area in Brewerytown, Lower North Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania 20% with a population of 37,289. There are 17,012 male residents living in Brewerytown and 20,277 female residents. 15% The total number of households is 13,861 with 2.51 people per household on average. Total household expenditures in10% Brewerytown are below the national average. The median age of the current population is 25.49 with 3,385 people being married and 19,444 being single. 5%

0% <5numbers5-14 35-44 45-54 65-84 84> The employment show that15-19 there are 20-24 66% white25-34 collar employees and 34% blue55-64 collar employees in Brewerytown. Figure 0.0.7 Brewerytown weather recorded temperatures oscillate between a high point in July of 88.00° F and a low point of 27.40° F in January. The air pollution index is of 98.00. Household Income Distribution Source of Income 11 18 $10k or less Other th century Brewerytown was named from being home to many of Philadelphia’s breweries. The town 19 15 $10k -In the 19 $25k Retirement 7 22 $25k -underwent many changes throughout the years. The town that was once all breweries transitioned to thriving $40k Public Asst. 14 14 $40k -residential community. Within the last decade Philadelphia has experienced a 42% growth in population $60k Supplmental Sec. 34 13 $60k - $100k specifically regarding young persons within the ages of 18‐29. Within the last three years development in this area Social Sec. 9 6 $100k - $150k Investments has increased to over 116%. 5 4 $150k - $200k Self Employed 3 Due to its location Brewerytown is an up and coming neighborhood of Philadelphia. Close proximity to the park $200k + Salary

Figure 0.0.8

60%

40%

20%

25%

20%

15%

10%

and to Center City this town with the population of 39,040 is listed as one of Philadelphia’s most desired neighborhoods to live in.

Figure 0.0.9

With these findings of an ever growing, predominately residential dominated area with over 7,000 family Number of Households households already existing and a 42% growth in millennial population we concluded that the site and new in Brewerytown construction must be used for mixed‐family residential apartment housing. Therefore allowing this area to become Marital Status a completely diverse sector meeting the standard for Philadelphia region and Brewerytown, specifically. 60% 50% 40%

Total Households 13,486

30% Site – Environmental 20% 10% 0%

Never Married Climate Zone 4: Environmental:

Separated

Dominated by southern light. Strong s

45%

55%

Family Households 7,617 Non-family Households 6,244

Divorced

Widowed

Figure 0.0.10

With Children 4,567 Without Children 9,292 Household Averaege 2.51 (per person) Figure 0.0.11

PROJECT REPORT PROJECT INTRODUCTION

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

DESIGN GOALS Mechanical Efficiency

The mechanical cores are implemented to organize the network of piping and ducts of our building systems. Sandwiched in-between every unit is an architectural shaft that provides a more organized network of mechanical ducts and piping. This layout adds to a more efficient way to maintain these technologies. This also facilitates the reduction of ventilation openings and number of penetrations in the SIPS wall paneling system allowing for a more air tight envelope. Technology

Synergy is founded on the principle of creating a harmonious relation between design and energy efficient technologies. Through design strategies of modular units and the utilization of various technologies integrated in the project Synergy conveys our guiding principle in and out, adapting to the surrounding environment, occupants, and dynamic city. These technologies include the HLR ventilator acting as the lungs of the building, the water retention cisterns and pipes that consume water on site, and a solar active façade and roof-scape to absorb energy from the sun. Adaptability

The schematic layout for Synergy came from a more in-depth understanding of the site and the needs of the occupants. In order to adapt and maximize on southern winter daylighting, a courtyard scheme was investigated through energy modeling analysis. The units were also pushed back creating a staggered south façade. Pairing with the orientation of the building is the addition of more windows generating more daylighting into each unit. The data showed us that designing the apartments around a courtyard enhanced light quantity to the northern units. The new result is about 65% natural daylighting within the living spaces. The old unit layout was closed off and inhibited light throughout the space as well as being a static design that didn’t suit the occupants dynamic lifestyle. The modular units underwent a redesign that now allows for adaptable living. Walls and furniture can get tucked away to meet the growing and dynamic need of the user while also preserving open space. Suitable for any type of function working from home, dinner parties, or a cozy night at home. The walls slide into one another by use of a double track system that allows for the user to open up their space letting light filter through each section of their apartment. Now, these modular units become a dynamic but personalized home built for the ever-changing occupant.

Density

Synergy’s micro-modular units, allows for further site density, while still conforming to zoning restrictions. In relation to the new schematic planning of the building, this density does not negatively affect daylighting strategies and occupancy comfort. Site density is also favorable to meet market demand, and property value.

PROJECT REPORT

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

PROJECT INTRODUCTION

THE HEART

[COURTYARD]

The pump house. The role to provide the body with oxygen and nutrients while also carrying away waste. The role of the courtyard is to act as a natural way of bringing fresh air into the building and releasing stress on the HVAC system. We also want these cores to become the heart of socialization of the users.

THE LUNGS

[HVAC SYSTEMS]

The role of the lungs primarily is to bring air from the atomosphere and pass oxygen into the bloodstream; allowing the rest of the body to circulate the oxygen. The role of the HVAC system is to provide fresh outdoor air to dilute interior airborne contaminants, such as odors from occupants, volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) emitted from interior furnishings, chemicals used for cleaning, etc. In Synergy we use a VRF Fan Coil System with an HLR System.

THE SPINE

[MODULARITY, STRUCTURE]

The role of the spine serves as a pillar to support the body’s weight and to protect the spinal cord.The role of the our architectural spine acts as the literal building blocks to Synergy. Here, you are able to see how the modular units are used similar to how legos would be used. Stacked one atop the other which creates an organization for plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems.

THE EYES

[WINDOWS]

The roles of the eyes are to convert light from the outside world into electrical nerve impulses. We are interpreting the windows to be the eyes of our architecture. The windows allow for the light to reach into the deepest areas of the units to reduce the use of artificial lighting

THE KIDNEYS [WATER COLLECTION] The kidneys maintain our body’s water balance by controlling the water concentration of blood plasma. Through our water collection system we are reusing grey water in order to maintain balance throughout our building.

THE SKIN

[BUILDING ENVELOPE]

The role of the skin is to protect, regulate and stimulate sensation. Its primary role is to act as a barrier. By integrating SIPs wall system we are creating a strong, energy efficient building envelope. The role of the skin is to protect, regulate, and stimulate sensation. Its primary role is to act as a barrier.

THE BODY

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

HUB FOR THE COMMUNITY

HUB FOR ART

An opportunity for local artists for a mural on existing building wall. Can become a conversation piece or landmark map.

Residents are welcome to the roof top where socialization is fostered by providing an exterior common space.

Giving spaces to sit for residents of the neighborhood, enjoying the cafe, or individuals awaiting the public transportation.

THE NEW PLACE TO LIVE Synergy becomes a place that meets the demands of its adapting neighborhood and potential users.

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

THE SPINE

[MODULARITY]

The role of the our architectural spine acts as the literal building blocks to Synergy. Here, you are able to see how the modular units are used similar to how legos would be used. Stacked one atop the other which creates an organization for plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems. Building Blocks

Prefabrication and modular construction are two of the larger strategic moves made in this project. Modular construction eliminates the need for large amounts of structure thus cutting costs on labor, site deterioration, and cost of construction. Separated in smalled units based upon bedroom size: two bedroom, one bedroom, and studio apartments. These modular units are constructed off site and trucked in. Each unit breaks off into even smaller compartmentalized sections. For dimensional and sectional reference see diagram [Figure 1.0] on the next page. Prefabrication

We are utilizing prefabrication techniques not only to cut construction costs which inevitably allows for rent to be cheaper, but also to ease the process of labor. We divided the building into sections that will fit into two different categories: build on-site and build off-site prefabricated. In order to do this we needed to divide the spaces of the corridor and units to one modular piece that would allow for construction assembly on-site to be cut by more than 50%. We also had to divide prefabrication technique into labor phases in order to generate a full-scale model. See [Figure 1.0].

PHASE 1 PHASE 2 PHASE 3 PHASE 4

Separate pieces of modular unit built

PHASE 5

Monolithic unit set in place on site

Separate pieces interior built and doors + walls cut out Modular units combined to make monolithic unit Monolithic unit transported to site

Modularity

We chose modular construction due to its quality of construction, longevity, and strength. Building off-site fosters a structure that can withstand the rigors of transportation. This means wall, floor and roof assembly becomes an intregrated construction.

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

MODULARITY BREAK DOWN

20’

SEPARATE PIECES

Separate pieces of modular unit built off-site at prefabrication manufacturer. The typical size for each unit:

19’

12’

Figure 1.0 8’

10’-5” 9’6”

11’

12’-6” B4

9’6” 27’

26’-5”

26’-5” C1

18’

12’

18’ 15’ B3 8’

STUDIO

1-BR

[C1,C2]

12’-6” [A1, A2, A3]

19’- 0” x 28’- 0”

18’- 6” x 26’- 5”

2-BR

[B1, B2, B3, B4]

20’- 0” x 39’- 0”

PHASE 1

Separate pieces of modular unit built

PHASE 2 Separate pieces interior built and doors + walls cut out

PHASE 3 Modular units combined to make monolithic unit

PHASE 5 Monolithic unit set in place and manually connected to the foundation in the field

Figure 1.1

PHASE 4 Monolithic unit delievered to the site on a conventional 18-wheeler semi-trailer truck (8’-6” x 42’-0”)

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

COURTYARD SYSTEMS

THE HEART

[COURTYARD]

The role of the courtyard is to act as a natural way of bringing fresh air into the building and releasing stress on the HVAC system. We also want these cores to become the heart of socialization of the users.

All rainwater collected on site will be re-used as grey water or for planting.

Figure 1.2

SOLAR PANELS Cutting down energy costs and protecting the environment are important, that is why Synergy utilizes solar energy to generate about 60% of its electricity from renewable solar energy.

STACKED PLUMBING In order to cut down on energy costs and consumption on the micro scale, the placement of plumbing fixtures was important in order to achieve a stacking effect thus limiting the run of hot water.

CENTRAL COURTYARD The central courtyard becomes not only a communcal element, but a multi-functional facet for natural daylighting, passive cooling, and passive ventilation.

GREEN WALLS The element of green space is important for natural cleansing of CO2 and other outdoor air pollutants, as well as functioning as a natural thermal barrier and dehumidifier.

de-humidifier.

ROOFTOP GARDEN A place to relax, and get away in the urbanscape is great. That is why a rooftop garden is designed on the building. It is also an element of rainwater collecting and thermal massing properties.

massing properties.

GREEN APPLICANCES All the appliances used in the building are EnergyStar. This cuts down on energy cost by 20-30% or more, overall.

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

COURTYARD RENDER

HUB FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

A green wall is incorpoated into the design of the courtyard to cleanse the heart of the project.

Native species selected to withstand sun and shade are found in the courtyard enhancing quality of life.

HUB FOR COMMUNICATION

Benches are designed along the pathway to facilitate conversation among sitters and walkers.

THE COURTYARD AND THE HEART The courtyard becomes an area for residents to come and enjoy the fresh air or develop relationships with other members of Synergy.

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

SITE PLANTING STRATEGY

BREWER YTOWN GARDEN THESSITE. Design strategies for the site include reduction of hardscape by incorporating green spaces that focus on native based plants while also providing occupants and community members a pleasant environment. Located on our site is a regional bus stop. Instead of ignoring these features we want to highlight them by designating site specific areas providing pleasant seating for community members while they wait for their bus. Planting beds vary on the amount of light, shade, and durability. Shade meadow plantings are located in the shaded spots of the site, whereas, sunny plants are located on areas of the site that recieve a lot of sunlight. These plants thrive in the conditions they are put in. Salt-tolerant plantings are located in areas closest to the road. Known as Boulevard plants, they are found closest to sidewalks or roadways where they are subject to rough chemical hazards near road conditions. [Figure 1.3]

SHADE MEADOW

SUNNY MEADOW

SALT-TOLERANT MEADOW

119

TREES

123

TANEY

LOBBY

20,127

SQFT MAIL ROOM 2 377 SF

1 Not Enclosed

3614 SF

CAFE STORAGE 9 86 SF

CAFE 4 1477 SF

180

POPLAR

BIKE STORAGE

26TH S TREET

LAUNDRY ROOM

STREET

Planted seating areas provided for community members and bus riders

STREET

161 SF

Figure 1.3

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

GREYWATER SYSTEM

RAIN GARDEN Not only does this provide a micro-environment for birds and butterflies but is also a good way to allow for water to penetrate and filter pollutants. It also creates a quality of life for the residents and community members. There is also a mural opportunity for Philadelphia programs to participate in, such as Mural Arts Philadelphia. This brings philanthropic opportunities to the community.

Scupper Box Drainage into garden

Potential Mural opportunity for local Philly artist

Grey Water Return to Units

Behive Rim Rain Water Cistern

2-3â&#x20AC;? Mulch Area Drain Non-Perforatted Overflow Pipe

Figure 1.4

Water Collection

Native Species

Exterior Benefits

Runoff from the surrounding paved surfaces and the roof drainage is collected and directed into the garden

The native plants provide food as well as habitat for animals like birds and butterflies. These plantings help to filter pollutants.

Recharges local ground water as well as increases sidewalk appearance and quality of life of the community.

Depth

Typically, rain gardens are between six-nine inches deep. The depression is filled with sand, topsoil, and compost that filters the water.

INTERIOR DESIGN

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

LIGHTING& APPLIANCES

THE EYES

[WINDOWS]

We are interpreting the windows to be the eyes of our architecture. The windows allow for the light to reach into the deepest areas of the units to reduce the use of artificial lighting fixtures. Design Behind the Form

The new schematic layout for Synergy came from a more in-depth understanding of the site and the needs of the occupants. In order to adapt and maximize on southern winter daylighting, a courtyard scheme was investigated through energy modeling analysis. Pairing with the orientation of the building is the addition of more windows generating more daylighting into each unit. The data showed us that designing the apartments around a courtyard enhanced light quantity to the northern units. The new result is about 65% natural daylighting within the living spaces. [Figure 2.0] The old unit layout was closed off and inhibited light throughout the space, as well as being a static design that didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t suit the occupants dynamic lifestyle. The modular units underwent a redesign that now allows for adaptable living. Walls and furniture can get tucked away to meet the growing and dynamic need of the user while also preserving open space. Suitable for any type of function working from home, dinner parties, or a cozy night at home. The walls slide into one another by use of a double track system that allows for the user to open up their space letting light filter through each section of their apartment. Now, these modular units become a dynamic but personalized home built for the ever-changing occupant.

INTERIOR DESIGN,

SYNERGY

LIGHTING, & APPLIANCES

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

UNIT DAYLIGHTING

DAYLIGHTING Due to the sites relationship to its solar condition we maximize on solar daylighting from the south. However, it was important to allow the units on the Northern side of the site to also achieve maximum daylighting. By incorporating a courtyard the units on the Northern side receive the same amount of daylight infiltration that the Southern units obtain with no obstructions. While our unit is designed to meet the users growing needs it also adapts to the changing of the daylight. We incorporated the use of frosted panel sliding doors that allow light to filter through without obstruction. Figure 2.0

WINTER.

+74

SPRING/FALL.

SUMMER.

LUMEN NUMBER SCALE Figure 1.5

DECEMBER 21, 12:00 PM

OCTOBER 21, 12:00 PM

JUNE 21, 12:00 PM

MARCH 21, 12:00 PM

INTERIOR DESIGN,

SYNERGY

LIGHTING, & APPLIANCES

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

ADAPTIBILITY

UNIT ADAPTIBILITY

By incorporating compartment walls that have built-in furniture the unit can transition into many different options. It can house a family feast of ten or become an open floor for a free-style dance party. The unit is always adapting to its user and their fun life-style.

STUDIO

As the town of Brewerytown changes and adapts to its environment, the design of our units meet that same adaptability. We designed our units in order to meet the growing changes of our users.

OPTION A

OPTION B

OPTION A

OPTION B

Studio Unit An apartment that changes into an office to meet our users need to work from home or even a spacious living room to relax.

OPTION B

While working is great this space transforms right back into a bedroom to lounge or sleep.

1-BR

OPTION A

1-BR Unit OPTION A

Thanks to sliding frosted panel doors the bedroom can turn into an open air living room or office.

OPTION B

When its time to go to bed the panel doors can slide closed and privacy can be mantained.

2-BR Unit OPTION A

A regular two bedroom unit can alter their living room to become an office.

OPTION B

A bedroom can turn into an office and the living room can become a large space to host movie night.

OPTION C

Suitable for thanksgiving dinner the table expands to meet guests of ten and the bed room can transform into an office or work space for children.

2-BR

OPTION A

OPTION B

OPTION C

Figure 2.1

INTERIOR DESIGN,

SYNERGY

LIGHTING, & APPLIANCES

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

INTERIOR RENDERS

Built-in wall storage, allows to free up more space within the unit, while acheiving multi-functional purposes. Even the small mechanical space is tucked away within these walls.

Collapsible furniture, allows room for more activities during daylight hours or for when company is over.

Adapt your unit to be able to have a dinner party for a table of ten.

Figure 2.2

INTERIOR DESIGN,

SYNERGY

LIGHTING, & APPLIANCES

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

INTERIOR MATERIALITY

RECYCLED GLASS COUNTER Environmentally friendly, ease of maintenance. Alternatively to ceramic material, glass requires less energy to produce.

TYPICAL INTERIOR MATERIAL LIST Figure 2.3

RECYCLED GLASS TILE Durable, easy maintenance, eco-friendly

PAPERSTONE COUNTERTOP Eco-friendly, durable, easy maintenance. Paperstone is a composite material compressed 100% post-consumer recycled paper, PetroFree phenolic resin and natural pigment.

BAMBOO FLOORING Ecologically conscious, easy maintenance, durable. This highly renewable resource is easy to clean and is durable for any surface.

PANEL DOORS Sliding panel doors. Allows for maximizing on even more daylighting throughout the adaptable space.

BLACK WOOD VENEER Ecologically conscious, consumer friendly. This wood veneer allows for an affordable way for consumers to finish their home nicely without going over their budget. It also cuts down on waste production in the hardwood milling process.

INTERIOR DESIGN,

SYNERGY

LIGHTING, & APPLIANCES

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

APPLIANCES

CONSERVATION OF NATURAL RESOURCES Synergy we utilize ENERGY STAR-Rated products to ensure the best efficiency as well as cost effectiveness. An average household can spend up to $5,550 on energy bills annually. Our units contain appliances that cut traditional energy bills in half. By the utilization of ENERGY-STAR appliances, our units minimize the exploitation of natural resources by reducing the amount of natural gas, oil, coal, and water consumption. Designed for every unit is the introduction to motion censored faucets. This allows for the users to use what they need while also conserving as much water as possible.

Figure 2.4

DISHWASHER Bloomberg DWT 58500 Energy Star WATER CONSUMPTION: 2.4 Gallons/ cycle

(52% better than US Federal Standard) CONSUMPTION: 225 KWH/YR (27% better than US Federal Standard)

REFRIGERATOR Bosch B10CB80NVW Energy Star CAPACITY: 11.4 cubic feet CONSUMPTION: 314 kWh/yr

TOILET

Glacier Bay - Dual Flush WaterSense Certified EPA Approved

KITCHEN FAUCET Flow Motion Activated WaterSense Technology EPA Approved

1.1-1.6 gallons per flush

1.8 Gallons per minute

SHOWERHEAD Waterpik WaterSense Certified

ELECTRIC RANGE Samsung 5- Element

2.0 gallons per minute

CAPACITY: 5.9 cubic feet CONVECTION OVEN: 3000 W CONVECTION STOVETOP: 100 - 3000 W

BATHROOM FAUCET Glacier Bay Constuctor 4in. Centerset WaterSense Technology EPA Approved 1.2 gallons per minute REGULAR APPLIANCES ENERGY STAR RATED APPLIANCES

Figure 2.5

Toilet Per Flush

Shower Per Minute

Sink Per Minute

Dishwasher Per Minute

INTERIOR DESIGN,

SYNERGY

LIGHTING, & APPLIANCES

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

APPLIANCES

COMMUNAL LAUNDRY ROOM

Instead of every unit having their own washer and dryer, we are implementing communal laundry rooms. By incorporating shared laundry we are effectively using ENERGY-STAR appliances that minimize chemical, water, and energy use. Our model by Kenmore requires less wash time and water consumption than a regular washing machine. This model is more efficient than a top-loading washing machine. Front-loading machines are generally more expensive, but produce better cleaning results, consume less water and are more gentle than top-loading washing machines.

CLOTHES DRYER BEKO HPD24412W EPA Approved Energy Star As the town of Brewerytown changes and adapts to its environment the design of our units meet that same adaptability. CAPACITY: 4.1 cubic feet We designed our units in order to meet the growing changes of our users. By incorporating compartment walls that CONSUMPTION : 149 kWh/yr have built-in furniture the unit can transition into many different options. It can house a family feast of ten or become an open floor for a free-style dance party. The unit is always adapting to its user and their fun life-style.

WASHING MACHINE Kenmore #4126 Energy Star EPA Approved CAPACITY: 4.5 cubic feet CONSUMPTION: 90 kWh/yr ANNUAL WATER USAGE: 4220 Gallons/yr

Load Configuration

Front Load

Volume (cu. ft.)

4.5

Integrated Modified Energy

2.92

Figure 2.6

Factor (IMEF) US Federal Standard (IMEF)

1.84

Annual Energy Use (kWh/yr)

Integrated Modified Water (IWF)

3.2

US Federal Standard (IWF)

4.7

Annual Water Use (gallons/yr)

4220

As the town of Brewerytown changes and adapts to its environment the design of our units meet that same adaptability. We designed our units in order to meet the growing changes of our users. By incorporating compartment walls that have built-in furniture the unit can transition into many different options. It can house a family feast of ten or become an open floor for a free-style dance party. The unit is always adapting to its user and their fun life-style.

Communal Laundry Room#4126 Kenmore

Beko HPD24412W Type

Ventless Electric Compact 240V

Load Configuration

Front Load

Heat Pump Technology

Heat Pump

Volume (cu. ft.)

4.5

Drum Capacity (cu-ft)

4.1

Integrated Modified Energy

2.92

Combined Energy Factor (CEF)

5.7

Factor (IMEF)

Estimated Annal Energy Use

149

US Federal Standard (IMEF)

1.84

Annual Energy Use (kWh/yr)

Integrated Modified Water (IWF)

3.2

US Federal Standard (IWF)

4.7

Annual Water Use (gallons/yr)

4220

(kWh/yr) Estimated Energy Test Cycle Time

(min)

Vented or Ventless

Ventless

Figure 2.7

Figure 2.8

Type

Ventless Electric Compact 240V

3 ENERGY

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

ANALYSIS

Figure 3.0

BEFORE RENEWABLES

Figure 3.1

FINAL SCORE

The Index Adjustment Factor (IAF) applied to the results of compliance simulations shall account for comparative savings over the Reference Home achieved by a square, 34626 ft2, 3-story, 36-Units Apartment Building, having the same envelope attributes as the proposed design but using the Reference standard equipment, where the overall index adjustment factor is as follows:

Index Adjustment Factor Equation: x.x.2 A RESNET accredited Energy Rating Software Tool shall be used to determine the Energy Rating Index for the IAD (ERIIAD). x.x.3 The saving represented by the IAD shall be calculated using equation x.x.3-1. IADSAVE = (100 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ERIIAD) / 100 (Eq. x.x.3-1) x.x.4 The IAF for the Rated Home (IAFPD) shall be calculated in accordance with equation x.x.4-1. IAFRH = IAFCFA * IAFNbr * IAFNS (Eq. x.x.4-1) where: IAFRH = combined Index Adjustment Factor for Rated Home IAFCFA = (2400/CFA) ^ [0.304 * (IADSAVE)] IAFNbr = 1+ [0.073 * (IADSAVE) * (Nbr-3)] IAFNS = (2/NS) ^ [0.070.12 * (IADSAVE)] where: CFA = Conditioned Floor Area Nbr = Number of bedrooms ERI = PEfrac * (TnML / (TRL * IAFRH)) * 100 (Eq 4.1-2) where: IAFRH = Index Adjustment Factor of Rated Home

Figure 3.2

CERT

Projecte Confirm

DRAF DRAFT DRAFT SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

HERS SCORE

Address

C02 emissions(Tons): 0

Annual Savings**: $831

Cooling

Total

Apartment, inside unit

C02 emissions(Tons): 0

2601 Poplar Street Philadelphia, PA 19130

Cond. Area

551 sq. ft.

Rating No. Based on standard operating conditions

April 03, 2018 Inspected and Tested

16.0

0 * Based on standard operating conditions -18.0 0.0 ** Based on a HERS 130 Index Home

16.0

Total

Photovoltaics Heating

20.0

MMBtu/yr

Lights & App

Total

Water Heating

Annual Savings**: $831

Estimated Annual Energy Consumption

Service Charge

Cooling

Annual Estimates* Company

Address

Total

TITLE

Electric(kWh): 1

Company

C02 emissions(Tons): 0

Address

Certified Rater Annual Savings**:

Photovoltaics

Figure 3.4

Lights & App

Photovoltaics

TITLE

Water Heating

10.0 - Residential Energy Analysis and Rating Software v15. REM/Rate 1.0 1.0 0.0 -18.0 0.0 0.0 This information does not constitute any warranty of energy cost or savings. © 1985-2017 N -10.0 The Home Energy Rating Standard Disclosure for this home is available from the -20.0 -426

Cooling

370

Lights & App

Apartment, inside unit

* Based on a HERS 130 Index Home Certification

Heating

Photovoltaics

Lights & App

House Type

Issue Date

Confirmation Required. Electric(kWh): 1

Water Heating

Cooling

Heating

Address

1.0

Philadelphia, PA 19130

MMBtu/yr

Annual Estimates* Electric(kWh): 1

ENERGY RATING CERTIFICATE

0.0

Estimated Annual Energy Consumption

Heating

$/yr

200 0 -200 -400

20.0 10.0 0.0 -10.0 -20.0

Figure 3.3

Cond. Area 551 sq. ft. 20.0 Rating No. 10.0 1.0 1.0 0.0 Issue Date April 03, 2018 0.0 Annual Energy Cost -10.0 Estimated Certification Inspected and Tested -20.0 400

Total

Projected Rating: Based on Plans - Field Annual Estimates*

2601 Poplar Street

House Type

Service Charge

Cost

-426

Estimated

Projected Rating: Based on Plans - Field Confirmation Required. PERFORMANCE Cooling

HERS

370

MMBtu/yr

400 200 0 -200 -400

ENERGY RATING Estimated Annual Energy Cost CERTIFICATE

Heating

$/yr

Water Heating

ENERGY ANALYSIS

$831

Certified Rater

* Based on standard operating conditions Rater ID

Rater ID

Registry ID

Rating Date

** Based on a HERS 130 Index Home

Registry ID

Rating Date

REM/Rate - Residential Energy Analysis and Rating Software v15.4.2 This information does not constitute any warranty of energy cost or savings. © 1985-2017 Noresco, Boulder, Colorado. The Home Energy Rating Standard Disclosure for this home is available from the rating provider.

ate - Residential Energy Analysis and Rating Software v15.4.2 titute any warranty of energy cost or savings. © 1985-2017 Noresco, Boulder, Colorado. The HERS scored based uponprovider. the specifications of a one bedroom unit. This unit type ating Standard Disclosure for this homegenerated is available is from the rating

was chosen due to the quantity occuring throughout the building. This method of energy rating needed to be conducted, due to the new implications by REMRATE initiated in December of 2016, which states that multifamily energy modeling can only be calculated by an individual unit. Based upon these constraints, the house size adjustment factor, and to the best of the teams knowledge, this score should reflect most of the units on site. The inputs regarding HVAC and mechanical equipment, where carefully calculated by the team and an MEP engineer, for both the entire building and a single typical unit type.

4 CONSTRUCTABILITY

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

Sectioning the Modularity

We sectioned off the building so that the building as a whole can become a part of the prefabrication process, whilst others become a build-on-site construction. These design decisions allowed for 85% construction off-site and 15% on-site minimalizing the cost of labor. In figure 4.0, the grey is representative of the 15% built on site construction. This type of method allows for our building to be constructed in pieces. Some units are built off-site as a regular one unit construction. Others are paired with the corresponding Benefits of Modular Construction WASTE REDUCTION

Building in a factory reduces the amount of waste and therefore increases protection of building. THEFT REDUCTION

On-site theft is reduced because of off-site controlled building setting. FAST BUILD TIME

Since the project is split to on-site and off-site construction two jobs can occur simultaneously, allowing for 30-50% faster finish time.

Figure 4.0

SAFER CONSTRUCTION

LIMITLESS DESIGN OPPORTUNITIES

With modular construction any design is possible adapting to any climate, location, and user.

BETTER ENGINEERED CONSTRUCTION

IMPROVED AIR QUALITY

Due to the fact that the prefabricated unit is built in a factory it is in a controlled setting and decreased the amount of high levels of moisture in on-site construction. UNIT A

UNIT B

By building the units in a factory-controlled setting it consequently reduces the amount of accidents and other liabilities for workers.

UNIT C

UNIT A.2

UNIT B.2

Since the unit is built off site and in a controlled environment more time is spent on better construction techniques because it needs to be delivered to the site. UNIT C.2 CIRCULATION CORE

CONVENTIONAL STICK FRAME CONSTRUCTION

LAUNDRY ROOM MODULAR

l Layer r ol Layer ayer Layer por Control d

CONSTRUCTABILITY

SYNERGY

BUILDING MODULAR

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

Modular Construction

Joint design should be highly considered for SIPs panels in order to avoid air penetration from the interior and exterior penetrations. If cold, damp, or humid air ends up reaching the interior or the outer sheathing layer it will cause damage and deterioration. Joint connections will be considered properly on site, which include seals within the thickness of the panel such as spray foam or gaskets. Having most of the building being modular allows for reduction of construction waste as well as save natural resources.

CORRIDOR CORRIDOR

UNIT A UNIT B Figure 4.1

Corridor Construction Detail

Gutter

Wood Panel Cladding

SIPs

Rain Screen Clip

GWB

SIPs

8d Nails Bamboo Floor Finish

Wall to Wall Vertical Pane System Sealant

9.5” Engineered Wood Joists

Premier Screw

Rigid Insulation

8” SIPs Panel Insulation: R-45

2” x 8” Blocking

GWB

Wood Panel Cladding

Floor to Units Construction Detail

Figure 4.2

Unit to Unit Plan Detail

Figure 4.3

CONSTRUCTABILITY

SYNERGY

INTEGRATION OF SIPs

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

Unit to Unit Plan Detail

STRUCTURAL INSULATED PANELS (SIPs) WHOLE-ROOM AIR

WHOLE-WALL

INFILTRATION, ORNL TESTING

R-VALUE

120 10 90 60 5 30 0

0 4” SIP

2x4 @ 16”

4” SIP

2x4 @ 16”

2x4 @ 24”

2x6 @ 24”

Figure 4.4

** Lower CMF= higher comfort and lower energy costs

8” SIPS WALL

2x6 @ 24”

To maximize on energy efficiency and also to increase user comfort we chose to incorporate an 8” SIP wall system. As noted above we can use less insulated material and have double the amount of efficency in our thermal containment. By using SIP wall panel our wall R-value is R-40.

R-40

10’ 8’

11’

18’ Figure 4.5

5 FINANCIAL

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

ANALYSIS

FINANCIAL CHECKSHEET SYNERGY’S TARGET FAMILY INCOME

$59,039

MEDIAN INCOME OF AREA

SYNERGY BASE RENT

$912.32

26.6K

REGIONAL BASE RENT

$1,350

Figure 5.0

Team Name: Contest Category:

Jefferson (Philadelphia University + Thomas Jeff Small Multifamily Construction Cost Summary

Site Work Foundations Framing Exterior Finishes Major Systems Rough‐ins Interior Finishes Final Steps Other

Baseline Design $ 198,753 $ 413,434 $ 643,005 $ 537,049 $ 467,797 $ 1,058,171 $ 241,689 $ 16,620

Team Design $ 430,100 $ 38,781 $ 4,950,277 $ 679,538 $ 1,026,475 $ 382,252 $ 28,313 $ 152,312

Total Construction Costs

$ 3,576,520 $ 7,688,048

**THIS INCLUDES PREFABRICATION CONSTRUCTION OF MODULAR UNIT

Figure 5.1

The prices of rent reflect the cost of water usage per unit. As designers and conservationists, Sales Price Summary and Cost of Living we’ve decided that the users should be charged per water usage instead of having a set monthly price included in rent for all units. Therefore, we would implement a utility Team Design submetering system. This allows the operatorBaseline Design of a multi-unit property to bill each unit for Total Sales Price $ 5,797,979 $ individual utility usage through the installation of additional meters behind a9,545,831 utility meter. By choosing this option we are allowing each user’s water usage to adapt to their lifestyle. This Monthly Household Debt (0.5% MFI) $ 295 $ 140for what also becomes an effort for individuals to become more eco-conscious by paying [Figure 5.2] Operations and Maintenance Costs $ 196 $ ‐ they use.

Monthly Utility Costs $ 160 Property Tax $ 332 10-Year Tax Abatement Insurance $ 79 Mortagage $ 1,405 Totalthe city of Philadelphia has implemented $ 2,467 In 2000, a ten-year

$ 103 $ 7,318 $ ‐ $ ‐ $ tax abatement7,561 to improve

real estate in the city. This encourages new construction because it’s considered as a $ 59,039 wholeEstimated Target Family Income structure improvement to the property. As an owner of the$ newly built 28,000 property and Debt to Income Ratio 50% of the land for 324% abated property you would only have to have taxes on the value the first ten years. Meaning the overall tax bill is only 10-20% of what it would be originally without the abatement. As a result, many of Philadelphia’s towns have seen a significant revitalization due to this new tax break.

Type o

FINANCIAL ANALYSIS

SYNERGY

COST BREAKDOWN

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

James Recommended prices

FINANCIAL OVERVIEW Profit %

8%8% 10% 10% 12% 12% 151%5% 181%8%

8%8% 1010% % 1212% % 15% 15% 18% 18%

m units

10,281.45) 10,471.85) 10,662.25) 10,947.84) 11,233.44)

8% 10% 12% 15% 18%

15,141.27) 15,421.66) 15,702.05) 16,122.64) 16,543.23)

Cost per Sq. Ft.

18% 462 $ (2.56) $ (2(2.34) .34) $ $ (1,502.89) (1,081.52) (2(2.38) .38) $ $ (1,530.72) (1,101.55) 8% 642 $ (2.34) $ (2(2.43) .43) $ $ (1,558.55) (1,121.58) 10% 642 $ (2.38) $ (2.49) (1,600.30) (2.49)$ $ (1,151.62) 12% 642 $ (2.43) $ (2.56) (1,642.05) (2.56)$ $ (1,181.66) 15% 642 $ (2.49) $ 18% 642 $ (2.56) $ 642 $ (2.34) $ (1,502.89) 642 $ (2.38) $ (1,530.72) 642 $ (2.43) $ (1,558.55) Total Rent revenue Yearly 642 $ (2.49) $ (1,600.30) (485,419.43) 642 $ 8% $ (2.56) $ (40,451.62) $(1,642.05) (41,200.72) $ (494,408.68) 10% $ (503,397.93) (41,949.83) $ 12% $ (516,881.80) (43,073.48) $ 15% $ Unit Type (44,197.14) $ (530,365.68) 18% $ Studio Total Rent Proﬁt Yearly (11,892.03) $ (142,704.32) 8% $ (12,641.13) $ (151,693.57) 10% $ FINANCIAL ANALYSIS (160,682.82) 12% $ FOR RENT PRICES(13,390.24) $ (14,513.89) $Value (174,166.69) Default Es�mate Home Cost 15% $ FINANCIAL ANALYSIS FOR RENT PRICES (15,637.55) $$ (187,650.57) 8% $ Construc�on 1 Costs Single 64462 2 $$ Double 64462 2 $$ 64462 2 $$ 642 462$ $ 642 462$ $

Total Home Costs

15,028.90) 15,307.21) 15,585.53) 16,003.00) 16,420.47)

RENT PER UNITS Total Cost per unit

Total rent from units # of Units RENT PER UNITS Unit Type Profit % Sq. Ft. Cost per Sq. Ft. Total Cost per unit # of Units 366 $ (2.34) $ (856.79) 12 $ (10,281.45) Studio James Recommended prices 366 $ (2.38) $ (872.65) 12 $ (10,471.85) 8% 366 $ (2.34) $ (856.79) 12 366 $ (2.43) $ (888.52) 12 $ (10,662.25) 12 10% 366 $ (2.38) $ (872.65) 366 $ (2.49) $RENT PER UNITS (912.32) 12 $ (10,947.84) 12% 366 $ (2.43) $ (888.52) 12 (2.56) $Total Cost per unit (936.12) # of Units 12 $ Total rent (11,233.44) Sq. Ft.366 $Cost per Sq.1Ft. 5% 366 $ (2.49) $ (912.32) from units 12 18% 366 $ (2.56) $ (936.12) 12 (15,141.27) 462 $ (2.34) (1,081.52) 1412$ $ (2.34)$ $ (856.79) (10,281.45) Sin3g6le6 $ (15,421.66) 462 (2.38) $ $ (1,101.55) 1412$ $ 366$ $ (87(2.34) 2.65) $ (10,471.85) 8% (2.38) 462 $ (1,081.52) 14 (15,702.05) 462 (2.43) $ $ (1,121.58) 1412$ $ 366$ $ (88(2.38) 8.52) $ (10,662.25) 14 10% (2.43) 462 $ (1,101.55) $ (16,122.64) 463266$ $ (2(.4 9 ) $ (1,151.62) 1 4 $ (91(2.43) 2.32) $ 12 (1,121.58) $ (10,947.84) 12% 2.49) 462 $ 14 (16,543.23) 463266$ $ (2.56) $ (1,181.66) 1412$ $ (93(62..1429)) $ (11,233.44) 15% (2.56) 4$62 $ (1,151.62) 14

Sq. Ft.

8% 10% 12% 15% Profi1t 8%%

James Recommended prices

Home Cost Construc�on Costs Total Home Costs

Profit %

Figure 5.3

4.50% Financing Annual Interest Rate Years 1.15% $P$ayments pe9r3Y,6e36a,94r86 $ $ Number of Payments $ Down payment $ Principle Amoun4t.50% Monthly Payment

Aﬀordability $ 59,039 $ $ Es�mated Target 93,664Family $ $ Income $

Double

7,688,048 Value 9,545,831 8% $ 10% $

RENT ANALYSIS $ Montly Payment Units paying rent Monthly Rent to cover Payment

59,039

(28,560) 36 (793.32)

Cost per Sq. Ft. 366 366 366 366 366

462 462 12% 462 15% 462 0.92% 18% 462 87,822

1.15% 7,688,048 3,986 $89,545,831 % 642 10%3.70% 642 123%0 years 642 4.50% 15% 12 642 0.92% 18% 360 642 3,3418,074,8122 6,204,790 93,664 $(28,560) $ 3.70% $ 30 years 12 28,000360 3,341,041 59,039 $6,204,790 (28,560)

Aﬀordability Es�mated Target Family Income

$ $ $ $ 14 $ (15,028.90) (15,141.27) (15,307.21) (15,421.66) 10 $ (15,585.53) (15,702.05) 10 $ (16,003.00) (16,122.64) 10 $ (16,420.47) (16,543.23) 10 $ 10 $ (15,028.90) Figure 5.2 (15,307.21) (15,585.53) (16,003.00) James Recommended prices **CONSTRUCTION CONSULTANT (16,420.47) JAMES TESORIERO RECOMMENDED PRICES

Sq. Ft.

8% 10% 12% 15% 18%

Default Es�mate

Property Tax ANALYSIS FOR RENT PRICES FINANCIAL Property Tax Rate 1.15% Tax 3,986 $Value Default Es�mate AnHome nual PCost roperty Tax $Property Property Tax Rate Construc�on Costs $ Annual Property Tax $ Total Home Costs Financing Annual Interest Rate Years PaProperty yments pTax er Year robpeerro tyf TPaaxym Raetnets NuPm DoAwnnnupaalyPmroepnet rty Tax Principle Amount MFinancing onthly Payment Annual Interest Rate Years Aﬀordability PEs�mated ayments peTarget r YearFamily Number oIfnPcoam ymeents Down payment Principle Amount Monthly Payment

(1,181.66) 1014$ $ 1014$ $ (1,502.89) 1014$ $ (1,530.72) 1014$ $ (1,558.55) 1014$ $ (1,600.30) (1,642.05) 10 $ 10 $ 10 $ 10 $ 10 $

$ $ $ $ $

Total Rent revenue Yearly Total rent from units (40,451.62) $ (485,419.43) 8% $ Total Rent revenue (41,200.72) $ (494,408.68) 10% $ (40,451.62 8% $ (10,281.45) (503,397.93) 12% $ (41,949.83) $ (41,200.72 10% $ (10,471.85) (516,881.80) (43,073.48) $ 15% $ (41,949.83 12% $ (10,662.25) (44,197.14) $ (530,365.68) 18% $ (43,073.4 15% $ (10,947.84) Total Yearly TotalRent RentProfit revenue Yearly (44,197.1 (11,233.44) 18% $ (11,892.03) $ (142,704.32) 8%8%$ $ (40,451.62) (485,419.43) Total$ Rent Profit (12,641.13) $ (151,693.57) 101%0%$ $ (41,200.72) (494,408.68) (11,892.0 (15,141.27) 8% $ $ (13,390.24) $ (160,682.82) 121%2%$ $ (503,397.93) (41,949.83) (12,641.1 (15,421.66) 10% $ $ (14,513.89) $ (174,166.69) 151%5%$ $ (516,881.80) (43,073.48) (13,390.2 (15,702.05) 12% $ $ (15,637.55) $ (187,650.57) 181%8%$ $ (44,197.14) (530,365.68) (14,513.8 (16,122.64) 15% $ $ Total Rent Profit Yearly (15,637.5 (16,543.23) 18% $ (11,892.03) $ (142,704.32) 8% $ (12,641.13) $ (151,693.57) 10% $ (15,028.90) (13,390.24) $ (160,682.82) 12% $ (15,307.21) (14,513.89) $ (174,166.69) 15% $ (15,585.53) (15,637.55) $ (187,650.57) 18% $ (16,003.00) (16,420.47)

$ $ $ $ $

RENT PER UNITS Total Cost per unit (2.34) (2.38) (2.43) (2.49) (2.56)

$ (2.34) 7,688,048 $ (2.38) 9,545,831 $ (2.43) RENT ANALYSIS $ (2.49) Montly Payment $ Units paying r(e2n.t56)

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

(856.79) (872.65) (888.52) (912.32) (936.12)

12 12 12 12 12

$ $ $ $ $

(10,281.4 (10,471.8 (10,662.2 (10,947.8 (11,233.4

(1,081.52) (1,101.55) (1,121.58) (1,151.62) RENT (1,181.66) ANALYSIS

14 14 14 14 (28,560) 14 36

$ $ $ $ $

(15,141.2 (15,421.6 (15,702.0 (16,122.6 Unit (16,543.2 Stud

Monthly Rent t0o.9c2o% ver Payment Montly Payment $ $ (793.32) Units p(1,502.89) aying re8n%t $ $ (63.47)10 $ Month(1,530.72) ly Rent1t0o%co$ver Paym (7e9n.3t3)10 $ $ Intended Prof1it2% % $ (95.20)

$ Intended Prof8(it72,% .83242) $ (2.38) $ (2.43) 3.70% RENT ANALYSIS $ (2.49) 0 eynetars Montly Pay3m $ (2.56) 12

$ $ $ $

(1,558.55) 15% $ (1,600.30) 18% $ (1,642.05)

10 $

(28,5

(119.00)10 $ (14(28,560) 2.80)10 $ Units paying rent 36 Figure 5.5 Monthly Rent t3o6c0over Payment $ (793.32) 4%1 IRENT ntendPER ed3,P3SQ. r4o1f,i0tFT. 8% $ (63.47) 6,204,790 Added cost Total 10%Per$Sq. Ft. (79.33) % SQ.1FT. 2%$ $ (95.20) 8% (28,560) $ (63.47) RENT $ PER (856.79) (2.34) % 15%$ $Added((2.38) 1c1o9s.t00)Total 10% $ (79.33) $ (872.65) 8% 18% $ $ ((63.47) 142.80) $ 12% $ (95.20) $ (888.52) $ (2.43) 10% (79.33) 15% $ (119.00) $ (912.32) $ $ (2.49) $ 12% (95.20) 18% 28,000 $ (142.80) $ (936.12) $ $ (2.56) $ RENT PER SQ. FT. 15% $ (119.00) $ % Added cost Tota18% l PFigure e$r Sq(142.80) . Ft.5.6 $ 8% $ (63.47) $ (856.79) $ (2.34)

10% $ (79.33) 12% $ (95.20) 15% $ (119.00) FINANCIAL ANALYSIS FOR RENT PRICES Figure 5.4 18% $ (142.80) Default Es�mate Unit Type Pro Home Cost Construc�on Costs Studio Total Home Costs 28,000

Total rent from units

# of Units

$ $ $ $

(872.65) (888.52) (912.32) (936.12) Value $ $

$ $ $ $

(15,028.9 $(15,307.2 (793 $ (63 (15,585.5 $ (79 (16,003.0 $ S(in9Ug5n (16,420.4 $ (119

8% 10% 12% 15% 18% $

Stu (142

Per Sq. Ft. Dou (856.79) $ S(2in

(872.65) (888.52) (912.32) (936.12)

(2.38) (2.43) (2.49) (2.56)

$ $ $ $

(2 (2 (2 (2

7,688,048 9,545,831

2 ,25 382

1,0

FINANCIAL DIAGRAM FRAMING

EXTERIOR FINISHES MAJOR SYSTEM ROUGH-INSEXTERIOR FINISHES SITE WORK SITE WORK EXTERIOR FINISHES INTERIOR FINISHES INTERIOR FINISHES SITE WORK OTHER OTHER INTERIOR FINISHES FOUNDATIONS FOUNDATIONS OTHER FINAL STEPS FINAL STEPS FOUNDATIONS

7,688,048

1,0 2 4,9 6,47 5 50 ,27 7

2 ,25 382

SITE WORK MAJOR SYSTEM ROUGH-INS

430

INTERIOR EXTERIOR FINISHES 6FINISHES 79,538

679,538

,10

7,688,048 7,688,048

FINAL STEPS

FOUNDATIONS

679,538 430

FRAMING

,10

MAJOR SYSTEM ROUGH-INS

7,688,048

FINAL STEPS

7,688,048

4,9

OTHER

679,538

1,0

INTERIOR FINISHES

,47

5 ,27 17,0 2 4,9 6,47 5 50 ,27 7

EXTERIOR FINISHES SITE WORK

12 152,3

,25

FINAL STEPS OTHER

382

FOUNDATIONS INTERIOR FINISHES

28,313 38,781

OTHER SITE WORK

MAJOR SYSTEM ROUGH-INS MAJOR SYSTEM ROUGH-INS

28,313 38,781

0,1

77 7

,27

4,9

1,0

,44,7

955

0,2

1,0

FRAMING FINAL STEPS FRAMING MAJOR SYSTEM ROUGH-INS MAJOR SYSTEM ROUGH-INS EXTERIOR FINISHES EXTERIOR FINISHES SITE WORK SITE WORK FRAMING INTERIOR FINISHES FRAMING INTERIOR FINISHESMAJOR SYSTEM ROUGH-INS OTHER MAJOR SYSTEM ROUGH-INS OTHER Rent Comparison EXTERIOR FINISHES FOUNDATIONSEXTERIOR FINISHES FOUNDATIONS SITE WORK FINAL STEPS SITE WORK FINAL STEPS FINISHES INTERIORINTERIOR FINISHES 2000

,47

FOUNDATIONS

Figure 5.7

Synergy

OTHER

The Fairmount at Brewerytown

OTHER

The Flats at 31 Brewerytown

FOUNDATIONS

The Flats at 31 Brewerytown

FINAL STEPS

1500FINAL STEPS

1500

The Pointe

RENT COST

2000

The Fairmount at Brewerytown

FOUNDATIONS

The Pointe

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

12 152,3

0,1 MAJOR43SYSTEM ROUGH-INS 0

00 Construction Costs Summary EXTERIOR FINISHES FRAMING

28,313 38,781

FRAMING

SYNERGY

FRAMING FRAMING

,3123 52,31 128 38,781 2 25 82,12 1532,3

2 1,0 4,9 6,47 26 5 50 ,47 ,27 4,95 5 0 7 ,27 7

1,0

1,01,02 2 6, 4,94,95 6,47475 50 0,2 5 ,27 77 7

,10

679,538

Synergy

7,688,048

2 4,9 6,47 5 50 ,27 7

430

7,688,048

28,313 38,781

CHARTS AND GRAPHS

12 152,3

FINANCIAL ANALYSIS

2 ,25 382

679,538

1000

500

1000

500

STUDIO

1 BED ROOM

2 BED ROOM

Figure 5.8

ENVELOPE

SYNERGY

PERFORMANCE & DURABILITY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

THE SKIN The role of the skin is to protect, regulate, and stimulate sensation. Its primary role is to act as a barrier. Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs)

By integrating SIPs wall system we are creating a strong, energy efficient building envelope. Due to the nature of how SIPs wall system is constructed, especially incorporating our prefabricated units, it cuts downs cost. Saving time, money and labor. By using SIPS wall system we are able to achieve our goals of a high-performance building enclosure. Compared to traditional construction SIPs construction provides a continuous vapor barrier while allowing a larger R-value. Normal SIPS construction includes two rigid board sheathing materials. The inner core sandwiched inbetween the ridgid board sheathing is expanded polystrene (EPS). EPS is pressure laminated together allowing for that continuous barrier and structural support. EPS is the least expensive of the foam fillers which is a completely recyclable material that is environmentally friendly. EPS foam insulation requires less energy than the traditional fiberglass insulation and also does not use any Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in the process.

TAPED AND PAINTED 1/2" GWB FINISH OBS INTERIOR PANEL

EPS INSULATED CORE

WOOD CLADDING OSB EXERIOR PANEL WITH HOUSE WRAP AND FURRING STROPS

DOUBLE PANE WINDOW

Figure 6.0

Longevity is inherent as long as there is proper lamination techniques applied in the manufacturing process. It is important to incorporate furring strips between the exterior face of the panel and the exterior cladding allowing the panels to dry out when water vapor enters the panel.

ENVELOPE PERFORMANCE,

SYNERGY

& DURABILITY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

ELEVATIONS + MATERIALITY

ELEVATIONS

SOUTH FACADE

NORTH FACADE

WEST FACADE

EAST FACADE

Figure 6.1

TENSILE FACADE Enhancing building thermal controls, tensile facade systems block solar heat and diffuse natural light. Reduction of lighting and cooling costs are highly benefical.

ECO-MESH This technology cleans the air while also cooling it whilst protecting the inhabitants by absorbing carbon oxide and heavy metals found in the air. Not only are their green benefits but aesthetically enhancing the area by incorporating more green.

METAL PANELS Versatile, durable, sustainable. Metal panels allow for quick installation and are not as heavy or carry the burden of cost that traditional masonry and concrete cladding have.

WOOD RAIN SCREEN Utilizing Climate-Shield Rain Screen Wood Siding System embraces the beauty of wood cladding but is strong and durable for an outlasting performance. Eliminates extra costs associated with labor and construction inadequacies.

ENVELOPE PERFORMANCE,

SYNERGY

& DURABILITY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

FACADE INFORMATION

Thermal Control Layer Air Control Layer Thermal Control Layer Air Control Layer Thermal Control Layer Drainage Control Layer Water Control Layer Air Control Layer Drainage Control Layer Water Control Layer Drainage Control Layer Vapor Retarder Layer Control Layer + Vapor Control Vapor Retarder ROOF Water R-VALUE SIPS WALL R-VALUE FLOORLayer R-VALUE Air, WaterHEAT COEFICIENT Vapor Retarder Layer Air, Water + Vapor Control Layers Combined Layers Combined Air, Water + Vapor Control Layers Combined

Thermal Control Layer Air Control Layer Drainage Control Layer Water Control Layer Vapor Retarder Layer Air, Water + Vapor Control Layers Combined

Thermal Control Layer Air Control Layer Drainage Control Layer Water Control Layer Vapor Retarder Layer Air, Water + Vapor Control Layers CombinedCRAWLSPACE WALL R-VALUE

0.45SCH

10/13

Thermal Control Layer Air Control Layer Drainage Control Layer Water Control Layer Vapor Retarder Layer Air, Water + Vapor Control Layers Combined

FENESTRATION U-FACTOR

0.20 kBtu/YR

Figure 6.2

OUR FACADE Glass Railing Accessible Green Roof Metal Panel

Gutter Drain Double Pane Window

Synergy’s envelope performance ultimately provides self-care to the building and keeps its inhabitants comfortable inside and outside. Synergy’s first approach to this is through its rainscreen, whichGutter provides an air gap between theGutter siding and theSIPs Gutter sheathing. The air gap benefits bothSIPs the exterior and Gutter SIPs interior spaces by managing moisture that accumulates GWB SIPs during cold weather and rain. This results GWB in a reduction of damage to materials because it allows the moisture8d Nails GWB Nails GWB to evaporate and dry quicker as well8das prevent waterBamboo 8d Nails Bamboo from penetrating the building’s envelope. The gap alsoFloor Finis 8d Nails Floor Finish creates a stack effectBamboo from the ventilation openings at9.5” Engin Floor Finish Bamboo the Floor top Finish and bottom allowing the building to breath as Wood 9.5” Engineered Wood Joists well as create a powerful drying mechanism. 9.5” Engineered 9.5” Engineered Wood Joists

Wood Joists

Rigid Insulation

Other than moistureRigidcontrol, also2” x 8” Blo Insulation the 2” rainscreen x 8” Blocking Rigid Insulation provides: 2” x 8” Blocking 2” x 8” Blocking

THERMAL INSULATION Wood Panel Cladding

Wood Panel Cladding

Wall: 8” SIPs Panel Insulation R-45

Figure 6.3

Wood Pan Cladding

Wood Panel Provides a low – cost method of Cladding thermal insulation by reducing thermal bridging and minimize energy running costs.

EASY MAINTENANCE Using materials such as metal panels Reclaimed Wood Cladding

Rigid Insul

and reclaimed wood panels provide easy rainscreen constructability. The panels can be easily removed which allows the building to be monitored when required. Due to the air gap there is less chance of deterioration of materials which avoids expensive maintenance and repair in the future.

ENVELOPE PERFORMANCE,

SYNERGY

& DURABILITY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

SIPS WALL

Thermal Control Layer Air Control Layer Thermal Control Layer Air Control Layer Drainage Control Layer Water Control Layer Drainage Control Layer Water Control Layer Vapor Retarder Layer Air, Water + Vapor Control Vapor Retarder Layer Air, Water + Vapor Control Layers Combined Layers Combined

Thermal Control Layer Air Control Layer Drainage Control Layer Water Control Layer Vapor Retarder Layer Air, Water + Vapor Control Layers Combined

OSB SHEATHING SIPs Panel GWB

Rain Screen Clip Attachment Fastener Wood Panel Cladding

ENERGY Gutter SIPs GWB 8d Nails Bamboo Floor Finish

Rain Screen Detail Section

Figure 6.6

3/4” Wood Rain Screen Cladding 2”x3” Furring Strip 1/4” Plywood Sheathing Inline Fiberglass Frame 325 Casement Window

Thermal Control Layer Air Control Layer Drainage Control Layer Water Control Layer Vapor Retarder Layer Air, Water + Vapor Control Layers Combined

This type of sheathing is made from a small diameter tree that are typically harvested which cuts down the distruction of old-growth trees. Any portion of OSB wood can be used. This allows for the reduction of construction waste.

Typically, SIPs construction requires Gutter 50% less energy to Gutter heat and cool than SIPs traditional stick-frame Gutter SIPs homes. This reduces SIPs the need to fossil fuels and therefore eliminates the consumptionGWB GWB of resources whilst also cutting down8d Nails GWB on greenhouse gas8d emissions. As aBamboo Nails 8d Nails result, it makes for an air-tight envelope Floor Finish Bamboo Floor Finish and Bamboo a higher R-value. Floor Finish

9.5” Engineered EPSWood FOAMJoistsSIP

9.5” Engineered Wood Joists

9.5” Engine Wood J

Rigid Insula

Rigid Insulation panels do not release any volatile2” x 8” Block Rigid Insulation 2” x 8” Blocking organic compounds (VOCs). Due to Rigid Insulation 2” x 8”ofBlocking its nature being an air tight envelope 2” x 8” Blocking the interior air can be closely controlledWood Pane Cladding Wood Panel allowing for the incorporation of our HLR Cladding Wood Panel Cladding Wood Panel system. Cladding

Double Pane Window

CONSTRUCTION Sandwiched

SIPs

Window Detail Plan

3/4” GWB

Backer Rod and Elastromeric Joint Sealant

in-between the OSB sheathing is a recyclable foam core. Occasionally it is used as a soil additive. This foam core requires less energy consumption in the production phase than a typical fiberglass insulation.

Figure 6.7

ENVELOPE PERFORMANCE,

SYNERGY

& DURABILITY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

CONTROL LAYERS

Thermal Control Layer Air Control Layer Drainage Control Layer Water Control Layer Vapor Retarder Layer Air, Water + Vapor Control Layers Combined

AESTHETICS

ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE Gutter SIPs GWB

Thermal Control Layer Air Control Layer Drainage Control Layer Water Control Layer Vapor Retarder Layer Air, Water + Vapor Control Layers Combined

Using simple lightweight materials (Metal Panels + Reclaimed Wood Panels) gives the building a modern design approach as well as enhances the surrounding area. Through easy maintenance and mixed use of materiality gives the building depth and definition.

Having an additional layer, the Gutter rainscreen claddingGutterprovides for SIPs improvement of acoustic performance. Gutter SIPs Occupants SIPs of the building will less likely GWB hear what’s going on outside. GWB

GWB

8d Nails

Bamboo Bamboo SUSTAINABILITY Avoiding deterioration in the futureFloor Finis 8d Nails Floor Finish Bamboo leads Floor to less Finishrepair, which means that9.5” Engin Bamboo fewer materials are required and less Wood Floor Finish 9.5” Engineered Wood Joists 9.5” Engineered energy is used during construction. Rigid Insul Wood Joists 9.5” EngineeredAlso, having improved thermal Rigid Insulation Wood Joists 2” x 8” Blo insulation requires less to heat Rigid Insulation 2” x energy 8” Blocking Rigid Insulationthe building. 2” x 8” Blocking 2” x 8” Blocking Wood Pan Cladding Wood Panel Cladding Wood Panel A second approach Synergy offers is experimentation Cladding Wood Panel through materials. For example, used on both the Cladding 8d Nails

building envelope and the courtyard envelope is an Eco-Mesh system. This is a modular panel system with netting on the inside to allow plants and vines to grow onto the building. Extending the landscape onto the building provides an aesthetic approach but also enhances air quality and shading technique. The courtyard also has tensile fabric modular panels to block direct sun exposure on the west and east, while providing natural light and views in and out of the courtyard. The tensile fabric and eco-mesh come together to create an aesthetically pleasing façade for the occupants as well as acts performatively for Synergy.

Window Detail Section

Figure 6.5

ENVELOPE PERFORMANCE,

SYNERGY

& DURABILITY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

FOUNDATION CONNECTION

Thermal Control Layer Air Control Layer Drainage Control Layer Water Control Layer Vapor Retarder Layer Air, Water + Vapor Control Layers Combined

R-20 Foil Faced Insulation Sill Seal 2”x 8” Pressure Treated Sill Plate Flashing 4” XPS Insulation Gutter SIPs GWB

Capillary Break Membrane Gravel Backfill

8d Nails Bamboo Floor Finish 9.5” Engineered Wood Joists Rigid Insulation 2” x 8” Blocking

Anchor Bolt Steel Reinforcing Rod Drain Tile

Wood Panel Cladding

Gutter

Drainage Control

To ensure that the thermal control layer is working efficiently we use a XPS foam that is moisture reistance and maintains an insulation performance at R-5 per inch.

Our drainage control layer works to move water down the building envelope without inviting water leakage inside.

SIPs

GWB

8d Nails

8d Nails Bamboo Floor Finish 9.5” Engineered Wood Joists Rigid Insulation 2” x 8” Blocking

Wood Panel Cladding

Foundation Detail

Thermal Control

Gutter

Bamboo Floor Finish 9.5” Engineered Wood Joists Rigid Insulation 2” x 8” Blocking

Wood Panel Cladding

Gutter SIPs GWB 8d Nails

Bamboo Floor Finish

9.5” Engine Wood J

Rigid Insula

2” x 8” Block

Wood Pane Cladding

Figure 6.4

Air, Water, and Vapor Control

Capillary break membrane is found between the concrete footing and wall. This maintains moisture migration under grade.

Vapor Retarder To retard the migration of water vapor we used a XPS insulation as our vapor barrier. By retarding the transfer of water vapor and moisture to masonry walls.

INDOOR AIR QUALITY

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

(IAQ) & VENTILATION

THE LUNGS The role of the lungs primarily is to bring air from the atmosphere and pass oxygen into the bloodstream; allowing the rest of the body to circulate the oxygen.

HVAC The role of the HVAC system is to provide fresh outdoor air to dilute interior airborne contaminants, such as odors from occupants, volatile organic compounds (VOCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) emitted from interior furnishings, chemicals used for cleaning, etc. A properly designed system will provide a comfortable indoor environment year round when properly maintained. In Synergy we use a VRF Fan Coil System with an HLR System.

Utilizing a Balanced System VRF FAN COIL SYSTEM Synergy utilizes a balanced VRF fan coil system to distribute heating and cooling throughout the building. The zoning of the VRF system is strategically planned based off of temperature conditions and orientation of the building. The North and West sides of the building are grouped into one zone, which would predominately be heat dominated zones. The units facing the south side of the building are grouped under the cooling dominated zone. This allows for the system to balance itself, and distribute the consumption of energy. Using refrigerant, VRF systems move heat between an outdoor unit (typically an air source or ground source heat pump) and one of many indoor units used to heat or cool an individual zone in a building. VRF systems have the ability to modulate the amount of refrigerant sent to each zone independently and in tune with diverse and changing space conditioning loads, thereby increasing energy savings. VRFs use a R-410a refrigerant, which is more energy dense than water or air. This means that a smaller volume of vapor or liquid refrigerant is required to move the same amount of heat. This can result in pumping motor savings and a more efficient transfer of heat to/from zones HEAT RECOVERY UNIT (Branch Controller) A heat recovery unit (HRU) allows for the simultaneous heating and cooling of several individual zones that are co-located on the same main refrigerant loop. For example, an HRU might extract heat from the refrigerant returning from a cooled zone to heat refrigerant leaving for a different zone that is currently in heating mode. By reusing the heat that can be extracted locally, HRUs can reduce the size of the overall heating and cooling loads that must be satisfied by the outdoor unit. The potential energy savings of utilizing this type of HVAC system, ranges from 10-30%. 42

INDOOR AIR QUALITY (IAQ)

SYNERGY

& VENTILATION

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

HLR ZONING

B E N ZO

HLR (HVAC Load Reduction)

A E N ZO

Figure 7.0

ZONING INFORMATION [Figure 7.0] Shows that there are three separate sections (green, red, yellow) to zone the VRF system Heating dominated Cooling dominated Own Circuit Commercial Zone

C E N ZO

. ZO COM

In conjunction with the ERV, the HLR system is attached to the Ventilator on the roof of the building. The enVerid HVAC Load Reduction (HLR) module is an intelligent scrubber that removes all indoor air contaminants, including carbon dioxide (CO2), aldehydes and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

When adjoined to the ERV system, the HLR module can result in a reduction greater than 60% in peak heating or cooling loads. Cleaning the indoor air instead of constantly replacing it with outside air, dramatically reduces the energy used by HVAC systems (in this case the VRF fan coil system) to heat or cool the outside air being brought into the building. In addition to removing indoor air contaminants, HLR technology also reduces the outside air pollution entering the building. This is a major benefit in metropolitan areas or near highways, airports, and highly trafficked areas. This is applicable in the heavily urban neighborhood of Brewerytown. With people spending 90% of their time indoors, indoor air quality has an enormous impact on health. Multiple studies showing that better indoor air quality can increase cognitive performance, health and productivity. The HLR 1000E-R module has the capacity air flow of 800 CFM. This inflow air take allows for the reduction in the sizing of the ERV module due to the lessening need for outside air intake. Based off of the infiltration calculations of the gross square footage of the appropriate HVAC zones and utilizing the HLR system, this allows for an ERV system with a Typical Airflow Range of about 1000 CFM to be utilized. Thus, with the use of a smaller ventilator system, the sizing of the ducts has decreased to about 5 inches being distributed into the units. In turn, this reduction in duct sizing now allows for more floor to ceiling height increase and flexibility.

INDOOR AIR QUALITY (IAQ)

SYNERGY

& VENTILATION

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

HLR BREAK DOWN

MECHANICAL CHANNEL

Lowers required HVAC capacity and capital expense

HLR

Level 4 30' - 0" 1' - 8 1/4"

As “Cores” became an important concept for Synergy’s design strategies, the mechanical core functions as the lungs of this living breathing machine. Providing individual vertical spaces sandwiched between each unit allows for efficient space for the units to “breath”. Located in these cores are utilities, such as an HLR system, a VRF system, an ERV system, a branch controller as well as plumbing. These systems work together and run vertically down into the mechanical channel and into each unit to create a comfortable space for its inhabitants. These Level 3 channels create an easy way to get the utilities into each 19' - 10 3/4" unit without creating as many punctures into the

Level 3 20' - 0"

SIPs wall paneling. Therefore, these mechanical channels were designed for an easy and a more efficient way to stack the utilities in an organized fashion, but also create a comfortable environment for each individual modular unit.

1' - 3 19/32"

Proprietary operational algorithms, control software and communications technology control, record and report all aspects of the HLR system operation. Electronic and technological advances maximize energy savings.

Level 2 10' - 0"

Electromechanical control of the HVAC system’s outside air damper minimizes the amount of outside air ventilation based on energy and air quality considerations.

4' - 2 15/16"

Patented sorbents automatically clean the inside air of contaminants, including CO2, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and formaldehyde.

Level 1 0' - 0"

Sorbents cartridges are self-cleaning. Sensors monitor the sorbents for saturation, and then initiate a regeneration process to cleanse the sorbents of captured contaminants. This purges the contaminants into the outside air. Mechanical Section

Figure 7.1

INDOOR AIR QUALITY (IAQ)

SYNERGY

& VENTILATION

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

HVAC: MECHANICAL CHANNEL

TYPICAL CONDITION HVAC DIAGRAM

B D

A VRF CONDENSER UNITS 208/230VHP 5 TON SEER: 16.00 HSPF: 12.10

COOLING: 60 kBtu/h HEATING: 64 kBtu/h

B HLR SYSTEM enVerid 1000E-R

Aborption Mode: 144W-330W 5 INCH DUCTS 800 CFM

C ERV

RD 2XRT Typical Air Flow Range: 500-2200 cfm Blower VFD Hertz Setting: 500 cfm 1.8 ESP 534 W

Figure 7.2

D BRANCH CONTROLLER E AC UNIT

RETURN

SUPPLY

INDOOR AIR QUALITY (IAQ)

SYNERGY

& VENTILATION

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

HLR RCP

HEALTH BENEFITS OF AN HLR

RETURN

SUPPLY

AHU

VRF Condensing Unit Located above mechanical chann

RCP Supply and Return

Figure 7.3 Return Supply

By incorporating an HLR system we are reducing the amount of CO2 and VOCs that filter through a home. This allows for a boost in the residents overall health. With a high efficiency air filtration system, such as an HLR the amount of outdoor to indoor contaminants decrease by 70 to 80 percent than traditional filtration and ventilation systems. Consequently, this reduces the amount of health issues relating to respiratory and cardiovascular system enhancing user productivity levels and cognitive performance.

PRODUCTIVITY

COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE

HEALTH

AHU

MECHANICAL, ELECTRICAL,

SYNERGY

& PLUMBING DESIGN

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

THE KIDNEYS

g in w m ro iu G ed M

GREYWATER SYTEM

t ee Str lar PA op hia, P 91 elp 20 ilad Ph

E AT W

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E ST

ity rs e iv ly Un ami n o -F rs ulti e ff M Je all r Street A Sm Popla phia, P 91 el 20 ilad Ph

e ag in ra ’0” D 1 f oo = R 24” / 1 1

Drainage Roof Plan

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SynA Living

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Figure 8.0

r rD pe ” up ’0 Sc = 1 1”

The system captures drain water from showers, tubs, and washing machines and directs it to a holding tank where it is filtered and pumped back into flush toilets. This reduces the amount of potable water and relieves strain on water treatment plants. Philadelphia’s annual rainfall is 41.45 inches, which is not drastically high, but by incorporating rainwater collection into our greywater system we can capture the water and utilize it for other purposes. Overall, the cuts the cost of water while utilizing greywater in a beneficial way. l3 ve /4" Le 0 3 1 '19

l4 ve 0" Le 0' 3

n ai

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TO W NES O I FL L ER AGE V O W SE

By using a water retention cistern Synergy’s overall savings of water usage is up to 30%. This also allows for a reduction of overall demand for potable water. American’s use around 7 billion gallons of water a day for landscape ge irrigation and garden n ina lamaintenance, a r P ated by incorporating aof D greywater system ic nd is I Ro greywater le Synergy uses the that the S ca residents generate and utilizes it as irrigation as well as toilet water. 18

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The kidneys maintain our body’s water balance by controlling the water concentration of blood plasma. Therefore, by incorporating a greywater system we are sustaining other ways to recycle water throughout the building by use of irrigation and flush water mitigating the need for fresh potable water.

MECHANICAL , ELECTIRCAL,

SYNERGY

& PLUMBING DESIGN

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

DRAINAGE WALL SECTIONS

Thermal Control Layer Air Control Layer Drainage Control Layer Water Control Layer Vapor Retarder Layer Air, Water + Vapor Control Layers Combined

Metal Flashing

Glass Railing Accessible Green Roof Metal Panel

Catchment Drain to Downspout Downspout to Water Retention Cistern 2”x8” Blocking 2”x12” Blocking

Gutter Drain

Gutter Double Pane Window

SIPs

Gutter SIPs

Scupper Box Wall Detail Section GWB GWB 8d Nails Roof Drainage 8d Nails Bamboo

Bamboo Floor TheFinish roof

Floor Finish

SIPs Gutter

SIPs

SIPs GWB

Gutter

GWB Figure 8.2

8d Nails Bamboo Floor Finish

8d Nails

Bamboo Floor Finis

9.5” Engin

9.5” Engineered is designed to be sloped towards the Wood Wood Joists Engineered scupper drains. 9.5” There are scupper drains atRigid Insul Wood Joists 9.5” Engineered each corner for faster/2” x 8” Blo Rigid Insulation Wood Joists of the building allowing Rigidwater Insulation easy drainage. The then gets 2” x 8” directed Blocking and Rigid Insulation 2” x 8”cistern Blockingtank to eventually be collected in a water 2” x 8” Blocking reused for greywater irrigation and flush water. Wood Pan

Wood Panel Cladding Reclaimed Wood Cladding

Wall: 8” SIPs Panel Insulation R-45

Wall Section of Drainage System

Figure 8.1

Wood Panel Cladding

Cladding

MECHANICAL , ELECTIRCAL,

SYNERGY

& PLUMBING DESIGN

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

WATER HEATER INFORMATION

PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE

UNION

Tankless Water Heater

Small Electric Water Heater

Expansion Tank

Hot Water Outlet to Fixtures

Recirculation Pump

BALL VALVES

D B

COLD WATER INLET

C E Water Heater Diagram

GAS SUPPLY

CHECK VALVE

Figure 8.3

Tankless Water Heaters Tankless water heaters, also known as demand-type or instantaneous water heaters, provide hot water only as it is needed. They don’t produce the stand-by energy losses associated with storage water heaters, which can save the project money. Based off of the estimating worksheet for peak water demand within the different unit types, each studio and one bedroom would need a water heater model with a first hour rating of 30 to 34 gallons. Each two bedroom unit would need a water heater model with a first hour rating of 54 to 58 gallons. For homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily, demand water heaters can be 24%–34% more energy efficient than conventional storage tank water heaters. They can be 8%–14% more energy efficient for homes that use a lot of hot water around 86 gallons per day. You can achieve even greater energy savings of 27%–50% if you install a demand water heater at each hot water outlet. ENERGY STAR® estimates that a typical family can save $100 or more per year with an ENERGY STAR qualified tankless water heater. Water Heater Model: Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus. The flow rate of the Tempra 24 Plus, ranges from 0.58 GPM – 5 GPM. This range will depend on the temperature rise required. For the most part, getting close to 5 GPM will provide enough flow for 2 bathrooms and other common utilities of a medium sized home.

Demand - Hot Water Systems Demand hot water recirculating systems can save water and energy in some situations. Potential benefits of installing a demand recirculating system during your next new construction or home retrofitting project, include: Demand recirculating pumps have the potential to solve the problem of a long wait for hot water at a distant fixture, while simultaneously saving energy, water and money. You no longer need to send cold water down the drain while waiting for warm water. Instead, recirculating pumps rapidly pull hot water from a water heater, while simultaneously sending cool water from the hot water lines back to the water heater to be reheated and reused. Demand systems can be controlled by the push of a button, a timer, or motion sensor. [Pump Being Used: UP15-10SU7P TLC, Comfort Hot Water Recirculation Pump, 3/4” NPT, 115 V]

MECHANICAL , ELECTIRCAL,

SYNERGY

& PLUMBING DESIGN

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

PLUMBING CHANNEL

TYPICAL CONDITION PLUMBING STACK C A

DEMAND

Hot Water - Recirculating System This system allows the units to get hot water faster, while also saving water and energy. As the recirculating pump rapidly comes from a hot water heater it also sends cool water from the hot water lines back to the water heater to eventually be reused.

WASTE PIPE

CONVENTIONAL PLUMBING

STACK EFFECT Having stacked plumbing cuts down on the amount of plumbing as well as installation time. This allows use for less materials and low labor costs.

Figure 8.4

Decreasing the Amount of Pipe Run

Synergyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stacked plumbing planning, cuts down on the amount of piping required, thus cutting down on labor costs and instillation time, as well as material use and costs. Another advantage to this strategic approach, is the shortening of hot water supply time to each water fixture. By cutting down the amount of pipe run and creating a hot-water plumbing loop system water continually moves in an efficient cycle. Reducing the amount of energy needed to heat the water and saves water as well.

9 INNOVATION

SYNERGY

JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY RACE TO ZERO 2018

PROJECT SUMMARIZED

INNOVATIVE STRATEGIES From the beginning of the project’s life, research and in-depth insight of innovative technologies was taken into consideration. Exploring the use of HVAC technologies that are not commonly used at this scale, proved to be beneficial to the building’s overall energy performance. While technology was a big part of this complex system, the design of the building was just as important, if not more. Synergy’s approach to adapt to the varying environment lead to the introduction of the courtyard. This courtyard, became the “heart” of the design. It allows for the low southern winter sun to reach to units in the back of the building, while also helping achieve passive cooling during the summer months. As the design and the technology merged, this idea of the building being a living, breathing, machine was born. Further development of adding new technological systems, and energy conserving methods, lead to a more complex network of energy systems. Systems such as the water cisterns on site, drink the water coming from the runoff of the building, and store for use in grey water and landscaping. Viewing the building as a complex organism, gives new meaning to the architecture, and allows for a better understanding of how the building is energy efficient and adaptable to its surroundings. Like the cells in the human body, the micro-units can adapt to both its occupants and the infiltration of daylighting. This adaptability is due to the introduction of collapsible furniture systems tucked away within the walls, and movable panel walls. These features within the units also affects the overall “health” of the structure. This planning, through energy modeling analysis, resulted in at least 65%-68% natural daylighting within living spaces, in turn cutting down on energy consumption in the overall building. The strategic planning of the mechanical channels sandwiched between a set of stacked units, is a way of organizing the MEP and plumbing distribution. Instead of the conventional way of scattered mechanical equipment in mechanical rooms and long runs of plumbing to reach the water heaters, the mechanical channels give organization and balance to the system. Synergy’s careful consideration for the complex technological systems, married with the design of the overall building, has proven to reach net zero energy capabilities.