As part of our design process, we submit our work for collective critique through a system of firm-wide design forums attended by a cross-section of the practice. Not only is this an opportunity to share our projects and pose questions to our collective intelligence, but it has also improves the design and performance of our buildings.
During each design critique, the project team delivers a short presentation covering any relevant background details about the project and focuses on the current design, often posing a particular question or challenge where they hope to receive input. These critiques involve various mediums for communication including sketches, diagrams or physical models.
The critiques and ensuing discussion allow us to flex our creative muscle. The conversations are filled with inquiry, vigorous debate and the synthesis of the best ideas.
Northeastern EXP features an organic pinwheel design, shaping research and classroom neighborhoods with shared community spaces radiating from the core to define each area. The building façade was tuned to achieve a 78% reduction in peak solar heat gain and a 62% reduction in cumulative solar radiation leading to energy use reductions and reduced mechanical system sizing. The use of stainless steel further leads to an embodied carbon reduction of almost one million tons when compared to aluminum while the natural stainless surface reflects light in a natural and warm tone giving the building an inherent energy.
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