The Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design
Atlanta, GA
Business Type
Academic building with classrooms, labs, auditorium, and community spaces
Size
42,500 square feet
Architect
Lord Aeck Sargent and The Miller Hull Partnership
Owner
Georgia Institute of Technology, Donor: The Kendeda Fund
Certifications
- Net-Zero Water
- Pursuing Beyond Net-Zero Energy
- Living Building
- Net-Zero Energy
With Net-Positive Energy and Water, composting toilets, and 330 kW rooftop solar arrays, the Kendeda Building turns every corner into a lesson in sustainability. It is a scalable model for high-performance design in the Southeast and beyond.
The Kendeda Building: Innovation in a Hot and Humid Climate
As one of the first fully certified Living Buildings in the Southeast, the Kendeda Building on the Georgia Tech campus demonstrates that regenerative design is possible, even in hot and humid climates. The building includes classrooms, labs, an auditorium, and community spaces, and serves as a daily learning environment for students, faculty, and visitors.
Purpose: A Living-Learning Laboratory
This project supports Georgia Tech’s mission to lead in sustainability and innovation while functioning as a teaching tool. Building systems are visible and accessible, allowing students and visitors to learn from the structure. From composting toilets to rainwater harvesting, every element is designed to support education and environmental responsibility.
Power: Net Positive by Design
The building generates an astounding 120% of its onsite energy through a 330 kW rooftop solar array, achieving the Net-Positive Energy target of the Living Building Challenge. A heat recovery chiller connected to the campus chilled water loop provides heating in winter, while radiant flooring distributes heating and cooling efficiently. Air curtains at doorways reduce energy loss, and onsite energy storage helps manage demand. These systems work together to deliver reliable performance in a challenging and demanding climate.
Proof: Performance That Scales
In addition, as part of the Living Building Certification, the Kendeda building also attained the rigorous Net-Positive Water requirements. Rainwater is collected, filtered, and used for potable needs. Greywater is reclaimed, and composting toilets eliminate the need for a sewer connection. In addition, a green roof and condenser water heat recovery further reduce environmental impact. These systems prove that regenerative design is achievable and replicable in the Southeast.
A Scalable Model for the Southeast
The Kendeda Building sets a bright new standard for sustainable design in extreme regions. It shows that high-performance buildings can be practical, comfortable, and educational, while reducing environmental impact and inspiring future innovation.