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Northeastern University Interdisciplinary Science Complex celebrates opening

Rebecca Maloney Rebecca Maloney Americas Press Office ,Boston
6 April 2017

Arup implemented comprehensive energy strategies for the newly opened 234,000ft2 laboratory facility at Northeastern University in Boston.

Northeastern University wanted to build the most energy efficient building possible for their new Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Complex (ISEC), which celebrated its opening on 3 April. In collaboration with Payette, Arup used advanced computer modelling to integrate the design of the building systems with the façade. This significantly reduced operational costs and improved energy efficiency, putting the project on the road to LEED Gold status.

The Massachusetts Stretch Energy Code calls for new buildings to perform 20% better than required by base code. The ISEC surpasses this requirement, achieving 33% energy-cost savings over code and 75% energy savings compared to typical laboratory performance. Overall we provided mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering, as well as energy modelling, façade consulting, sustainability, and lighting design services for the high-performance facility.

We are extremely pleased to be a partner in such an extraordinary project at Northeastern University. Sharing Arup’s resources and expertise in sustainability and technology with the team made the experience a true collaborative process — a work of total design. ” Julian Astbury Julian Astbury Arup Principal

The ISEC is open to outside researchers in the interrelated fields of computer science, basic sciences, health sciences, and engineering. Attracting talent from beyond the campus raises the university’s profile and diversifies the academic leadership and curriculum. The project benefits the surrounding community as well; a pedestrian bridge (currently in design by Arup's structural engineers in collaboration with Payette) will span the commuter-rail tracks to allow residents, workers, and students to easily and safely navigate their way through the site.

Click here to watch a video on the ISEC and the innovative engineering design behind it. 

Arup implemented comprehensive energy strategies for the newly opened ISEC building.