Attention: You are using an outdated browser, device or you do not have the latest version of JavaScript downloaded and so this website may not work as expected. Please download the latest software or switch device to avoid further issues.
30 Sep 2024 | |
Context Fall 2024 |
Located in Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse-Fitler Historic District, 1722 Pine Street was originally built around 1845. In the 1920s, it was converted into a multi-family building with a ground-floor professional office, a three-story rear addition and new internal stairs. A century later, the building underwent another transformation. Under the guidance of the owner/architect team, Passive-House renovations gut-rehabbed the first floor while basement excavation and underpinning created a bi-level owner’s apartment and BluPath’s professional office. Upper apartments were reconfigured with new kitchens and bathrooms. A shared garden roof deck is capped with a solar PV-ready canopy. Extensive research drove the envelope design, including masonry moisture testing, and hygrothermal and Passive House energy modeling. The walls and roof are super-insulated using cellulose and mineral wool with “smart” air barrier membranes. Gas service was removed, and an all-electric building with LED lighting and Energy Star appliances was established. The technology-savvy and aesthetically sensitive design pays homage to its historical context, preserving the original façade design. Interior elements blend craftsmanship with artistic flare. Traditional millwork recalls the building’s history, while accent colors catch sunlight on the ground floor, animating the modern interior finishes and furnishings to bring the owners’ art collection and personalities to life.
Project: Historic Pine St. Passive House Retrofit
Location: Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia
Client: Private Homeowner
Project Size: 6,500 square feet
Project Team:
BluPath Design (Architect, Passive House Consulting)
Kent Lessly Consulting (Passive House Consulting)
Rivera Structural (Structural Engineer)
Building Science Corporation (Consulting)
Dragon Construction/Hivemind Construction (General Contractors)
Arch Street Lighting (Lighting Supplier)
Photos: Sam Oberter Photography
To view this News Article
A new book uses data to make the case for climate optimism and innovation More...
We can’t just build with better materials, we need to accomplish more with less More...
The stark necessity of decarbonizing the global building industry More...
Building biodiversity and connectivity in the urban environment More...
Re:Vision Architecture More...