Harvard University / Blackstone Offices, Cambridge MA
Construction cost: $11,000,000 ($12,490,000 in current dollars)
Completed: 2006, Size: 42,000 sf

The 46 Blackstone Street renovation unified three 19th-century masonry buildings into an environmentally sustainable workplace for Harvard University Operations Services (UOS). A glazed 100'-long lightslot joins the buildings, and a three-story skylit stairway allows light deep into the building. Over 90% of occupants now enjoy daylight, fresh air and views from operable windows.

Blackstone was Harvard's first LEED Platinum-certified building, and a model for environmental design on campus. At the time of completion, it was the highest-scoring LEED renovation in the nation, and the oldest building to earn Platinum certification. Energy-saving features include an innovative insulation system at the historic brick walls, a geothermal cooling system, and a heat recovery wheel. Energy-efficient, low-VOC equipment and materials were used throughout (including daylight sensors, occupant sensors, and an energy-efficient elevator). A landscaped courtyard, sculpted from earth excavated during construction, requires no irrigation; a bio-retention pond treats storm water runoff.

2008   AIA New England – Design Merit Award
2008   Cambridge Historical Commission – Preservation Award
2008   College Planning & Management – Green Design Award
2007   Boston Society of Architects – Honor Award for Sustainable Design
2007   Environmental Design and Construction Finalist – Excellence in Design Awards
2007   City of Cambridge – Go Green Award
2007   AGC Build New England – Merit Award