Eco Factor: Historic building to have water collection system and green roof.
A building that ditched the 1906 earthquake and fire, and continues to stand as a national historic landmark, is on the verge of getting a green makeover. Yes, the San Francisco Mint will be revitalized as a new city museum and visitor’s center that will be loaded with green features. The new additions will be made without hindering its permeability and openness to the outer environment.
HOK has proposed interventions that behave like intermediaries between the exterior environment and internal spaces, which require variable degrees of control and comfort. The structure will also include a glass canopy on the roof that can collect water and fog at its corners to provide natural irrigation for a terraced roof garden.
The Mint already includes green features like a passively ventilated, naturally lit structure that makes use of its significant thermal mass, operable windows and a central courtyard. The new design will help in making the historic structure a perfect model of sustainable design.
