Solar One

with Bjarke Ingels Group

Project architect 2017/2018

This Net Zero Energy project for a new facility on the East River to be occupied by not-profit group Solar 1 presents a unique opportunity to create a dynamic center for environmental innovation and learning. As a gateway to the northern-most point of the East Side Coastal Resiliency waterfront redevelopment and in cognizance of the OneNYC principals, this project aims to be an exemplar in sustainable and resilient design and construction. The 4715sf building footprint includes raised flexible indoor classrooms that can be consolidated and used for community functions; outdoor terraces; office facilities for Solar 1, EDC and Parks department staff; and a café/gallery space, with the lower level designed to be inundated during flood events.  The building is designed as a continuous fabric connection between classroom, park, and waterfront. Elevating the building out of the floodplain anticipates the future flood protection berm, and pulls the park upward in a series of educational terraces connected to indoor classrooms and the solar roof.