University of Massachusetts Amherst designed by Leers Weinzapfel Associates, Bringing together the previously dispersed departments of Landscape Architecture, Architecture, and Building Technology programs, the new Design Building is a dynamic space of exchange, collaboration, and experiment, celebrating a shared commitment to sustainability.
Axonometric
The Design Building is a highly visible demonstration of sustainable design practice. It?s the first and largest cross-laminated timber (CLT) academic building in the US. The envelope is highly-efficient, with dedicated mechanical types of equipment zoned for maximum efficiency, with radiant flooring and chilled beams for energy savings. A calculated expanse of glazing and skylights provide maximum daylight to the building?s interior to significantly reduce artificial lighting energy. Stormwater management concept directs roof runoff via sculptural scupper to a ?spring source? at the top of the site and filters the water via series of successive bio-swales and timber dams to the lower end of the site and eventually back to the Connecticut River. The design is targeted for LEED Gold Certification. Photography: Albert Vecerka
To create a center space of collaboration, a coiling and rising band of studios, faculty offices and classrooms surrounds a skylit Commons for gathering and presentations. The building also forms a green roof terrace, a contemplative space shared by the studios and faculty and a potential experimental s...