Project Details:
Rutland, VT
Housing
Project Overview:
Historic adaptive reuse and renovation of an existing two story masonry facility which was once the home of the Immaculate Heart of Mary School in Rutland, VT.
This renovated facility provides 19 units of much needed affordable housing and community gathering spaces. Scope of renovation includes all new mechanical, electrical, and fire protection systems, the reconfiguration of interior spaces, thermal envelope upgrades, window and roof replacement, site improvements, and the installation of a roof-top mounted PV array.
A Challenge:
Lincoln Place Housing, in its international style, is a unique piece of Vermont’s architectural history. Its steel-frame structure, glazed brick cladding, and minimal decorative features appear deceptively simple. However, the existing construction details, materials, and methods presented unique challenges to current building technology and energy efficiency. Adding to this complexity were the stringent preservation design parameters that needed to be adhered to for the project developer to meet critical historic tax credits requirements.
Our Solution:
NCC’s preconstruction and construction teams worked closely with the architect and historic preservation consultant early in the process to identify difficult areas and details. One example is found in the original distinctive glass block located in vertical ribbons across the building’s facade. Sustainability goals and adherence to the energy code required these areas to be thermally upgraded, but the pattern and daylighting effect the glass block delivered were important to retain from a historical standpoint. The final solution to achieving the preservation, energy, comfort, and aesthetic goals was to install Kalwall insulated panels to the interior of the glass block, with complementary grid lines and a similar opaque daylighting effect. The installation, trim, and thermal details were ironed out and the final product was a resounding success. This is one small example of many others throughout the building, where historic adaptation and preservation faced necessary energy efficiency and operational adjustments. The right solution required teamwork and creativity.
During the project, there was always clear communication and management of the trades was excellent. Rob, Pete and Kyle have a distinct style of collaboration at the same time holding everyone accountable to their quality standards and time efficiency.
Mary Cohen, Executive Director
Housing Trust of Rutland County
