Eco Factor: Science Center designed to be powered by solar energy and fuel cells.
Designed by Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects, the Connecticut Science Center has opened the doors of a new LEED-certified facility. 95% of the steel used in the construction is manufactured from recycled cars. In addition to its ecofriendly bones, the building also makes use of a fuel cell that provides approximately two-thirds of the needed power.
The science center is a composition of three major elements – a tower in the shape of a parallelogram, a terraced volume that steps back on one side and cantilevers outward on the other and between the two, a narrow glass tower topped by an iconic S-shaped roof, the project’s signature image.
The center is clad in transparent glass to allow natural light to filter through and where appropriate PV panels and a large projection screen are also installed. The second story on the street side cantilevers over the entry and the elevation is clad in LED panels that broadcast images. Moreover, the entire north volume is covered in a roof garden.
Via: Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects
