/ Project of the Week Archive

December 12, 2023 Project of the Week

Project Name: Ewing Senior and Community Center

Company Name: DIGroup Architecture

Project Location: Ewing Township, New Jersey United States

Project Information/Details: In the early morning hours of Sept. 30, 2022, a five-alarm fire broke out on Lower Ferry Road in Ewing Township. Several hours later, when the fire had been contained and extinguished, it was clear that the Ewing Senior and Community Center (ESCC) had suffered tremendous damage – and this important community resource was rendered unsafe and closed indefinitely. Once known as the Trenton Jewish Community Center and Day Camp, the ESCC property is a notable resource on both the National Register of Historic Places and the New Jersey Register of Historic Places. Originally constructed in 1955, the property also includes a historic bath house that sits on the same parcel of land. “At the same time as the fire, DIGroup Architecture was completing the design for the relocation of the Township’s Construction Office. It was only natural for me to ask how we could help,” said DIG President Vincent Myers. “DIG thrives on community-based revitalization projects and this one hit particularly close to home for me – literally. My family has called Ewing Township home for nearly 20 years, and I know how impactful the ESCC is within our community.” When it came time to award the bid, DIG was named Architect of Record – an acknowledgement of the firm’s performance on the construction office project; its recognition by the American Institute of Architects-New Jersey Chapter as 2022 Firm of the Year; and Myers’ strong connection to the community and personal volunteer efforts to redesign the basketball courts at Moody Park in the township. Community Center Rebuild Leads to Restoration of Historic Bath House Shortly after earning the bid to rebuild the ESCC, DIG was also asked to assist in the restoration of the historic bath house, an award that would immediately connect the firm to the architectural community and architectural historians on an international level. “It was a proposition we could never refuse,” said Myers. “The bath house was designed by famed architect Louis I. Kahn and sits immediately adjacent to the ESCC, so it only made sense that we support the restoration efforts there, as well.” While not impacted by the fire, the bath house was in desperate need of repairs and an overall visual refresh to bring it back to its original grandeur. Kahn, an Estonian-born architect based in Philadelphia, was hired to design the entire complex in the mid-1950s when the idea of a multi-use community center was a unique concept. Ironically, while the bath house was constructed, his completed plans for the community center were abandoned. To educate themselves and prepare for the design of the new ESCC and restoration of the bath house, Myers – along with DIG’s Jeffrey Venezia, CEO, and Scott Hoffman, associate – took a tour at the University of Pennsylvania where Kahn’s original drawings of the bath house are located. “We spent pretty much half a day marveling at the drawings,” said Myers. “We dove deep into its history for inspiration so we can deliver a design that respects and honors its architectural roots while delivering a cohesiveness to the entire property that echoes Kahn’s vision.” When completed, the ESCC will comprise approximately 70,000 square feet of space, doubling the building’s original 35,000 square feet. A community meeting was also held recently, where Mayor Bert Steinmann along with Myers conducted a public presentation and Q&A on the rebuilding effort. “Our goal with this important project is to create something that’s as iconic as the original bath house, while using forms and elements that connect both the ESCC and the bath house to one another – all while retaining the integrity of its history and ensuring it will remain a meaningful and sustainable pillar of the community,” said Myers.

December 05, 2023 Project of the Week

Project Name: Imagine East Bank

Company Name: HDR

Project Location: Nashville, Tennessee United States

Project Information/Details: HDR has been selected to manage the transformation of more than 500 acres in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee. The Imagine East Bank Vision Plan outlines the largest development project in the city’s history and envisions a new future for what is mostly underused land adjacent to its downtown. Currently dominated by parking lots and industrial sites, the city has developed a vision plan that imagines the area’s rebirth into dense urban neighborhoods, featuring multimodal access, mixed-use developments and a vibrant riverfront for Nashvillians to enjoy. A new professional football stadium and major corporate headquarters will be key parts of the transformation. “We are essentially creating a city from scratch," said Principal Program Manager Jim Czarnecky, who is leading HDR's work. "It will require expertise in utilities, planning, sustainability, engineering, project controls and much more. It’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity, and I’m thrilled to contribute to the growth of this city I love.” HDR’s team will work as an extension of Metro Nashville, providing oversight of planning, engineering and construction on both public and private East Bank projects. All development in the East Bank will be coordinated through the program management office, which will track activities, finances, schedules and how projects relate to each other. “A project of this size requires a dedicated team to help realize Metro’s vision in ensuring we build thriving neighborhoods and spaces dedicated to Nashvillians,” said Metro Nashville Chief Development Officer Bob Mendes. “We are thrilled to partner with HDR, who has proven experience bringing projects like this to life.” “The East Bank is bursting with unrealized possibilities for improving the lives of Nashville residents,” said HDR Principal-in-Charge Kyle Guthrie. “This program will create vibrant, equitable and livable neighborhoods where now there are acres of asphalt. It’s an honor to be part of this historic revitalization.”

November 28, 2023 Project of the Week

Project Name: Kauno Dokas

Company Name: Capitalica Asset Management

Project Location: Kaunas, Lithuania

Project Information/Details: Global climate change, disruptive technologies, big data, and shifting human behavior are shaping the future of our cities. Green building trends for the coming years include an increased focus on sustainability: net-zero energy buildings and zero-waste principles in architecture are the future. “Kauno Dokas” in Kaunas, Lithuania, is the first building in the country to be cooled by the nearby River Neris’ water (free cooling) and powered by solar energy produced in the building. Meanwhile, “VERDE” in Riga, Latvia, is an example of cutting-edge sustainable design with integrated green terraces, beehives, exceptional air quality, and natural daylight, all of which enhance the well-being and productivity of its tenants. "In our company's vision, we prioritize the future of our cities. When developing real estate projects, we invest in the latest green technology and sustainable architectural solutions to create long-term value for our investors, tenants, and society. We stand for no greenwashing; it guides our business strategy. In 2018, Capitalica Asset Management embraced green technologies, securing a historic green loan from SEB Bank – the first in the Baltic countries," stated Andrius Barštys, Chairman of the Board at Capitalica Asset Management. “Kauno Dokas”: Lithuania’s Leading Green Business Center “Kauno Dokas”, a Class-A business center in Lithuania, is powered by solar and water energy, marking a pioneering engineering achievement in the country. By implementing a unique free cooling method, it uses water from the Neris River. The building also ensures optimal air quality, natural daylight, and microclimate control with separate ventilation systems, internal blinds, and opening windows. It promotes eco-consciousness and tenant well-being, integrating innovative AI solutions for energy efficiency. Digital Operator, a product implemented by the Estonian company "R8," is the most advanced green energy demand management solution developed for commercial real estate. It identifies and recognizes interactions initiated by staff and tenants, continuously learns from the dynamics of the building, and adapts to their changing needs. While solar panels are not a novelty in contemporary buildings, “Kauno Dokas” combines them with energy-saving elements like free-cooling water energy and the Digital Operator. This integration enhances the building's green approach and optimizes energy consumption. In July of this year alone, “Kauno Dokas” produced 10% of the building's total electricity with solar panels. According to Bionic data, most businesses consume between 15,000 and 25,000 kWh of energy per year, so the electricity produced at the “Dock’s” solar power plant accounts for almost half of this total amount. In the near future, the solar panels installed in the complex will produce 100,000 kWh/year. Architecturally, “Kauno Dokas” is distinguished by its use of natural materials and colors on the exterior, harmonizing with the waves of the neighboring Neris River. Glass constructions create an inviting sense of lightness both inside and out. According to the architect Gustė Kančaitė, “Kauno Dokas” looks like it is levitating in the air or standing on legs through which Neris River is clearly visible. It is characterized by lightness, rhythmicity, and dynamic division as if the waves of the river. Such a decision came from the green idea of modern architecture.” “VERDE” Building: A Productivity-Boosting Green Oasis “VERDE,” a Class-A office building located in Riga’s fast-developing Skanste district, incorporates innovative features that have been scientifically proven to boost productivity. "VERDE," designed by award-winning architects “Archis Arhitekti” in collaboration with “Around” architects’ office and “Zala Landscape Architects,” embodies the need for stability in the ever-shifting world. This is reflected in the dynamic structure of the building with a round base standing on asymmetrical columns. Spanning two buildings, 11 floors, and 30,000 square meters of leasable space, “VERDE” stands as a green oasis in Riga’s heart. It features relaxing terraces, meadow-inspired greenery, state-of-the-art air ventilation systems, intelligent lighting, smart layouts, and various amenities – all aimed at enhancing well-being and productivity. Harvard research confirms these benefits, including reduced sickness-related absences. “VERDE” is also a nearly zero energy building (nZEB) that ensures energy efficiency and sustainability. Its strategic location ensures accessibility to key destinations in Riga, including the airport, central railway station, shopping areas, parks, cultural venues, and sports facilities. “VERDE” building’s A complex was commissioned on July 29, 2022, and is well-positioned to serve the growing Skanste district, which is predicted to become Riga’s new central business district, with a projected 42,713 residents by 2030. B complex is being developed and will open its doors in the spring of 2024.