Nation's Largest Net-Zero Mixed Use Project Planned for Philadelphia

Branden Klayko reports on the pioneering project planned by innovative Philadelphia design-build developers Onion Flats.

1 minute read

January 20, 2012, 10:00 AM PST

By Jonathan Nettler @nettsj

Planned for a site on the banks of the Schuylkill River, The Ridge is intended to become the nation's largest Passive House. Scheduled to be completed in 2014, the building will be prefabricated in a facility just outside Philadelphia.

Sustainable elements include power generated by a 200-kilowatt solar array and a completely permeable, green-roof covering the site.

The technical aspects of solving the net-zero energy puzzle are not the only challenges for Onion Flats. "What's going to be important is to demonstrate that it's easier to meet Passive House standards on large-scale buildings than small buildings," [Timothy] McDonald, [Principal] said. "We want to show that it's not only possible but also much easier to take on larger buildings without losing quality design."

FULL STORY: Passive Progressive

Thursday, January 19, 2012 in The Architect's Newspaper

Architecture Environment Technology Pennsylvania Philadelphia Passive House Onion Flats Net-zero Energy Branden Klayko View More

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Use Code 25for25 at checkout for 25% off an annual plan!

Get 25% Off Your Subscription

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.