To help with the affordable housing crisis in New York, Sendero Verde, a 361-unit residential tower was constructed on 60 East 112th Street. Currently the largest Passive House development in the country, it also features some of the most innovative energy saving methods available.
With sustainability at the forefront of this design, Sendero Verde features thermal breaks which will help minimise energy consumption whilst reducing its environmental footprint. Not only has this project benefited the community, it has also demonstrated a commitment to combating climate change.
The Handel Architects team approached Armatherm looking for structural thermal break solutions that would help achieve their sustainability goals. With the perfect combination of compressive strength and thermal efficiency for a range of applications, Armatherm 500 was the ideal choice for the project. The innovative product will effectively reduce thermal bridging in several places along the building envelope whilst also providing structural support and insulation at challenging thermal bridging locations.
Speaking about the project, Louis Koehl, Senior Associate and Director of Sustainable Design at Handel Architects, said: “We utilised Armatherm’s thermal breaks to interrupt thermal bridges in several locations. From shelf angles, to dunnage, to door thresholds, Armatherm products offered the right balance of thermal performance and strength, and were simple to coordinate with our exterior wall details.”
In addition to the thermal breaks installed in Sendero Verde, the design also included a range of energy-efficient systems, green roofs, and a focus on sustainable construction materials. One of the most impressive and eye-catching features include its vertical gardens. Not only does this add to the aesthetic appeal it also improves the air quality and thermal comfort of the building. Furthermore, the state-of-the-art rainwater harvesting system manages stormwater, relieving the pressure on the city’s sewerage systems. This eco-building is at the forefront of design and promotes sustainable practices that need to be included in new and upcoming projects.
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