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The idea for VLEST started with the University of Pennsylvania's aim to lead in sustainable energy research and improve a neglected part of their campus. This project combines scientific goals with modern building design. The research building is planned to help fight climate change through its layout, energy efficiency, and material choices. A former parking lot has been transformed into a welcoming entrance, featuring green spaces and a community atmosphere. Inside, the design promotes collaboration across different fields. Open areas filled with natural light connect the labs, outdoor terraces, and work zones. The architecture serves its purpose—its form and function are focused on supporting climate action.
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The Vagelos Laboratory for Energy Science and Technology changes an old parking lot into an important green entrance on the east side of Penn's campus. This project connects different levels, linking Walnut Street and Shoemaker Green with new walkways, open areas, and a lower courtyard. Local plants and water basins help bring back nature to the spot, while the building design focuses on views and links to nearby university buildings. It takes space from cars and gives more importance to people, bicycles, and nature. The project transforms an empty city area into a lively gateway between the city and the campus.
The VLEST focuses on sustainability in its design and purpose. It strives for the LEED Platinum certification. The building features low-carbon systems. Special ETFE sunshades help keep the lab cool by minimizing sun exposure and can be recycled completely. The lab uses effective methods like letting air flow naturally and heating or cooling through surfaces to save energy. It also uses daylight to naturally light up the interior spaces. An energy-saving heat recovery system and a smart ventilation system ensure optimal operation. The lab is situated on what was once a parking lot, transformed into a green entryway to the campus. It includes native plants and stormwater basins, emphasizing the University of Pennsylvania’s dedication to achieving carbon neutrality by 2042.
The Vagelos Laboratory for Energy Science and Technology (VLEST) stands out at the edge of Penn’s campus with its unique, eco-friendly design. This building highlights Penn's focus on sustainability and teamwork. Inside, there are different levels for labs, terraces, and spaces to work together. Outside, there is a new plaza and sunken courtyard where an old parking lot used to be, creating a pleasant area for walking and enjoying green spaces. The building’s exterior features custom-made, curved sunshades that help conserve energy. These sunshades let daylight in while also keeping the building cool by blocking some of the sun’s heat. Inside, the structure connects different areas with double-height spaces and open gathering spots, encouraging conversations and idea sharing among people. The building uses smart energy-saving strategies to lower energy use. This makes it an example of a low-energy, eco-friendly research facility. Its thoughtful design, materials, and attractive spaces set a standard for future sustainable buildings.
“I get a lot of people interested in what’s going on [with the sun shades],” “It’s making it a real highlight of that corner of campus and it’s going to be a marker for years to come.” Nadine Gruhn, Managing Director of the Vagelos Institute for Energy Science and Technology
Behnisch Architekten was founded in 1989 and works out of four offices – Stuttgart, Munich, Boston and Weimar. The firm enjoys a global reputation for high-quality architecture that integrates environmental responsibility, creativity, and public purpose and produces a rich variety of buildings mainly in Europe and North America. The partners and staff share a vision to push the boundaries of high performance, 21st-century architecture that respects user needs, ecological resources, and local cultures. From the beginning, Behnisch has prioritized the social dimension of architecture and the quality of the urban environment. Its projects respond to the material and spiritual needs of people. In over 30 years, the firm has created a diverse portfolio of projects that is attuned to the culture and climate of place and demonstrates new ways for occupants to inhabit their surroundings.
