232 Bedford Ave / Loadingdock5 Architecture

232 Bedford Ave / Loadingdock5 Architecture - Windows232 Bedford Ave / Loadingdock5 Architecture - Windows, Facade, Cityscape232 Bedford Ave / Loadingdock5 Architecture - Windows, Facade232 Bedford Ave / Loadingdock5 Architecture - More Images+ 2

Text description provided by the architects. Renovation and conversion of existing commercial building for retail use plus addition of duplex single family home above.The design is an attempt to create a passive solar house to minimize heating and cooling costs.We achieved this by constructing a well-insulated building shell out of the Insulated Concrete Forms building system and a large south-facing triple-insulated glass facade which leads to a roof garden on top of the retail space.

232 Bedford Ave / Loadingdock5 Architecture - Windows
Courtesy of loadingdock5 architecture

The 4' roof overhang and the 3rd floor balcony provide shading for the glass facade in summer while the low angle of the sun in the winter will provide heat for the interior.

232 Bedford Ave / Loadingdock5 Architecture - Windows, Facade, Cityscape
Courtesy of loadingdock5 architecture

As a supplement to the passive solar concept, we utilized an HVAC split system with a heat pump rather than a typical furnace and A/C unit.The heating cost is further reduced through an energy recovery ventilator, which uses the warm exhaust air to preheat the incoming cool fresh air.In the summer months, the ventilator works in reverse.

232 Bedford Ave / Loadingdock5 Architecture - Windows, Facade
Courtesy of loadingdock5 architecture

The design of the openings on the street-facing facade did not take place until halfway through the construction process when we were able to meet with the clients onsite to determine where certain openings could be placed to respond to light conditions, views of the skies and exterior, and to maintain privacy.

Plan

Project gallery

See allShow less

Project location

Address:Brooklyn, NY, USA

Click to open map
Location to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.
About this office
Cite: "232 Bedford Ave / Loadingdock5 Architecture" 22 Jul 2010. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/70043/232-bedford-ave-loadingdock5-architecture> ISSN 0719-8884

You've started following your first account!

Did you know?

You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.