au projet
Architect
Behnisch Architekten
Engineering
Knippershelbig
The University of Pennsylvania is expanding its energy research facilities with the new Vagelos Laboratory for Energy Science and Technology (VLEST), located on the east side of campus near downtown Philadelphia. This 112,000 sqft, seven-story building will support current and future energy research.
Built on a former parking area between the David Rittenhouse Laboratory and S32nd St, the VLEST aligns with S32nd St, creating a new landscaped quad. Proximity to a SEPTA train line required careful consideration of noise and vibration, leading to strategic placement of sensitive lab equipment. The building envelope is covered by an iconic screen made of ETFE panels.
