Kaleigh Harrison
In Seattle’s Pioneer Square, the 133-year-old Metropole Building has made a remarkable comeback. Once falling apart, it’s now a high-performance facility with a notable Energy Use Intensity (EUI) of just 18, earning a LEED Platinum certification. Backed by the Satterberg Foundation and designed by BuildingWork, the project shows how we can adapt older buildings to fit modern carbon reduction goals while keeping their historical charm.
Instead of tearing the structure down, the team decided to keep the original building. This choice avoided the high embodied carbon emissions that come with new construction. The Metropole serves as a powerful example of how reusing buildings can help preserve history and meet city-wide climate goals.
Today, the Metropole is a thriving nonprofit center. It houses an early learning center and several organizations that specifically support communities of color. All spaces comply with ADA requirements, enhancing accessibility and community engagement.
Achieving modern efficiency in a historic building wasn’t easy. The team integrated cutting-edge systems with the old architecture. They installed triple-glazed wood windows and high-performance curtainwall systems to improve energy efficiency while keeping the building’s character intact.
The building’s energy strategy relies on a fossil-fuel-free mechanical design. It uses air-to-water heat pumps for heating and cooling, cutting down energy demand and ensuring comfort throughout the year. The design also includes natural ventilation options and rooftop solar panels paired with battery storage, offering renewable energy and backup power.
Water and materials were chosen carefully too. The project avoided harmful Red List materials, reduced water use by 40% compared to building codes, and implemented efficient plumbing. These steps not only preserved the building but also aligned it with climate readiness.
The Metropole stands as a prime example of how thoughtful design, policy, and investment can breathe new life into old structures while meeting today’s sustainability needs. As cities worldwide face the challenge of aging infrastructure and climate change, this project highlights the potential of adaptive reuse as a viable solution for a sustainable future.
Source link
sustainability, energy efficiency, environmental leadership, ESG strategies, business trends, renewable energy, corporate sustainability, energy management
