Close

The Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design has officially opened

New building at the Georgia Institute of Technology aims to generate more power than it uses.

The Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design at the Georgia Institute of Technology in the United States aims to generate more electricity from solar panels than it uses on an annual basis.

The 4366-square metre structure features a 917-solar panel canopy that harnesses energy and provides shade for the south and west façades and also collects rainwater, which is treated for all uses, including drinking.

Other sustainable elements of the design, by Lord Aeck Sargent and The Miller Hull Partnership, include the innovative use of reclaimed materials, composting toilets and the diversion of more waste from landfills than the facility sends to them.

The project is also home to a 400-square metre rooftop garden featuring a honeybee apiary, pollinator garden and blueberry orchard.

Georgia Tech President Dr. Ángel Cabrera said: “The Kendeda Building is an incredible and beautiful example of sustainable design, integration with nature, human inclusion and well-being.

“It is the most sustainable building of its kind in the [US] southeast. And thanks to our partnership with the Kendeda Fund it will inspire architects, civil engineers, business and policy leaders for generations to come.”

Dena Kimball, Executive Director of The Kendeda Fund, added: “The official opening of the building is the starting point, not the finish line.

“Now the real work begins, as Georgia Tech embraces the goals of the Living Building Challenge and demonstrates what is required to operate a building that gives more than it takes and creates a positive impact on the human and natural systems that surround it.”

The Latest

Wave: The New Mediterranean Haven in Dubai

IDST’s design invites exploration with a thoughtful blend of artisanal craftsmanship and contemporary style.

The Chedi Wadi Safar

Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) and KCA International are collaborating to launch this new hotel

A New Era of Early Learning

Roar crafts the PIF Daycare Centre in Riyadh with a calming, sensory-rich environment where design, nature and childhood development come together.

When Art Meets Light

Brush and Switch by Sans Souci bend light in unexpected ways

The Importance of Community-Driven Design

We speak to Joanna Varettas, Senior Associate Designer at TGP International on the story of Seed & Bloom – a café designed to nurture connection and community engagement

Finasi at Downtown Design 2025

Finasi x ROAR presents – Made in UAE

For this year's Downtown Design, Finasi and Pallavi Dean will unveil a bold new installation that speaks the language of material honesty, exceptional craftsmanship, visionary design, and local identity.

A Lesson in Restraint

This Palm Jumeirah home proves that luxury can be achieved with intention, rather than scale

Vote for your favourite projects at the identity Design Awards 2025

You can now choose your favourite project from the identity Design Awards 2025 shortlist

identity Design Awards 2025 shortlist: Interior Design

The shortlist is revealed for the interior design categories

What to Expect at Downtown Design

The Middle East’s leading platform for high-quality contemporary design will showcase a curated mix of international and regional brands, alongside independent designers and studios

A New Chapter of Wellness

Studio Marco Piva has designed the Eden Spa at Excelsior Palace in Rapallo, where architecture, landscape and luxury converge