by ArchitectureWeek

It's no longer enough to be energy conserving. To be truly "green," a building should integrate efficiency and form, use renewable energy systems, and demonstrate sensitivity to its natural surroundings and to the health of its occupants. It should also rely on materials, construction methods, and operational procedures that cause minimal disturbance to the environment.

Over a dozen buildings in the northeastern United States that meet these standards were cited in the March, 2004 announcement of Northeast Green Building Awards, sponsored by the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative Renewable Energy Trust and the Northeast Sustainable Energy Association.

Honors for design and building excellence for either new construction or renovations were given in several categories: places to live, places of learning, and places of work. In addition, four awards were given for student projects.

Two projects tied for first prize for places of work — small buildings. One is the Gilman Ordway Building of the Woods Hole Research Center at Falmouth, Massachusetts by William McDonough & Partners. This building has already been described at length in ArchitectureWeek. The other project is the Natural Lands Trust Headquarters Expansion in Media, Pennsylvania, by Susan Maxman & Partners Architects.   >>>

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The Natural Lands Trust Headquarters Expansion in Media, Pennsylvania, by Susan Maxman & Partners Architects. Photo: Gregory Benson Photography The renovated Felician Sisters Convent in Coraopolis, Pennsylvania, by Perkins Eastman. Photo: Denmarsh Photography   Click on thumbnail images to view full-size pictures.