From Principles to Practice DIGITAL
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The Kendeda
Building for
Innovative
Sustainable
Design Completed in 2019
Atlanta, Georgia, US
Jonathan Hillyer
Presented by Architecture 2030
125The building was conceived in response to the construction indus-
try’s significant environmental impact, aiming to demonstrate that
high-performance, net-positive buildings can be achieved at scale. A
key objective was to create an educational environment that encour -
ages innovation in sustainable design, construction and operation.
The project integrates a range of sustainability strategies, includ-
ing a significant solar array, rainwater harvesting and treatment
systems, and the extensive use of reclaimed materials such as sal-
vaged wood from dismantled buildings and film sets. The structure is
designed to last at least 100 years, with adaptability in mind to extend
its usefulness and minimize future demolition waste.
Key outcomes
ENVIRONMENT The Kendeda Building demonstrates sus-
tainable resource use and climate respon-
siveness by producing more energy than it consumes and managing
all its water needs on-site. The building achieves net-positive energy
status with its 917 rooftop solar panels generating over 455,000 kilo-
watt hours (kWh) annually (fulfilling the Energy Petal requirement of
the Living Building Challenge). The project prioritizes circular mate-
rials, including nail-laminated timber panels crafted from 25,000
linear feet of reclaimed 2x4s from dismantled movie sets, resulting
in significant carbon footprint reduction. Additionally, the Kendeda
Building manages water efficiently through rainwater capture from
its roof, foam-flush toilets and waterless urinals, significantly reduc-
ing water consumption compared to traditional systems, contribut -
ing to the building’s net-positive water status.
FUNCTIONALITY Designed as a multi-use academic build-
ing, the Kendeda Building is a research
and educational hub, supporting Georgia Institute of Technology's
(Georgia Tech) mission to advance sustainability knowledge. The
adaptable design ensures long-term usability, allowing the building
to evolve alongside advancements in technology and pedagogy.
The facility includes classrooms, laboratories and gathering spaces
that encourage collaboration between students, faculty and indus-
try professionals.The Kendeda Building for Innovative
Sustainable Design seeks to challenge
conventional construction methods
by applying the principles of circularity
and regenerative design. Located on
the Georgia Institute of Technology
campus, it is the first Living Building
Challenge-certified project16 in the
southeastern US, a region known for
its hot and humid climate.HIGHLIGHTS
FROM THE DBQS
ENVIRONMENT
FUNCTIONALITY
ECONOMY
SENSE OF PLACE
COST
$30 million
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