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Elizabeth River Project: Pru and Louis Ryan Resilience Lab

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Location: Norfolk, VA
Square Feet: 6,200
Architect: Work Program Architects
Contractor: Hourigan
Market: Office
Cultural
All Markets
Recreation-Hospitality
Special Features:
The Pru and Louis Ryan Resilience Lab stands as a pioneering 6,200 square foot, three-story office building dedicated to advancing the Elizabeth River Project’s mission of river research and restoration.

Designed to support cutting-edge river research and educational initiatives, this facility is strategically located within the FEMA AE9 Flood Zone, necessitating robust flood-proofing measures.

The building’s design seamlessly integrates high levels of resilience and sustainability. Key features include:

  • Resilience and Sustainability: Equipped with roof-mounted solar panels, green screens, green roofs, and rain collection systems to enhance environmental performance and energy efficiency.
  • Exterior Enhancements: Includes a thoughtfully designed waterfront pier and boat dock, contributing to its functionality and aesthetic appeal.
  • Structural Design: Constructed with a wood frame supported by wood piles, the building also features ground-level parking to optimize space usage and accessibility.

The project was meticulously developed using Revit, adhering to a Level of Detail (LOD) 300 as defined by AIA Guidelines, ensuring precision and clarity throughout the design and construction phases. This innovative facility exemplifies a commitment to integrating sustainable practices with practical design solutions for critical research and community engagement.

Awards

  • ENR MidAtlantic Excellence in Sustainability Award | 2024

  • HRACRE Excellence in Development Design Award of Excellence — Best Conceptual Project | 2021