BluPath-GreenSteps Office

• Best Practices in Sustainability
• Commericial
• Interior Renovation
• Local Materials
• Low Emitting Materials
• Mixed Used
• Rapidly Renewable Materials
• Recycled Materials
• Renovation
• Urban

The building is located in an urban setting, between a mature residential neighborhood and an active, historic commercial district, with schools, parks, shopping and restaurants. Public transportation and numerous car sharing locations are available nearby. The 3,000 square foot mixed-use building is ‘thru-block’, with windows on the east and west facades, bringing sunlight into the building throughout the day. The first floor and lower level are office use, with a large 1 bedroom apartment on the second floor. Major renovations included installing spray foam insulation at exterior walls and roof, replacing building mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, replacing most windows and doors, and adding an accessible toilet room and ‘feature’ stair to connect the first floor office space with the lower level support areas. A safe door ‘found’ during demolition is featured in the conference area. The office area was designed with an open plan for maximum flexibility and offers easy reconfiguration. The first floor office space is wheelchair accessible, with a new entry ramp. Entry canopies and a cornice were added at the west façade to distinguish the office use from residential use, and to provide shelter in bad weather and shade from afternoon sun. The second floor apartment was also improved in the renovations. The project received a Pennsylvania Small Business Advantage Grant for energy-efficient improvements.