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The Kendeda Building: Rethinking What a Building Can Be


At Georgia Tech, the Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design is more than a structure—it’s a bold statement about the future of architecture. Certified as a Living Building, it goes beyond net-zero energy to be net-positive, producing more energy than it consumes. It also collects and purifies rainwater, generating all the potable water it needs on-site. This building doesn’t just coexist with its environment; it actively enhances it.


One standout feature is its use of reclaimed materials. The floors are crafted from salvaged wood, and the building incorporates granite curbs from Atlanta’s streetscape. These elements aren’t just eco-friendly—they connect the building to its local history and culture.


The Kendeda Building challenges the norms of sustainable design. While many green buildings focus on reducing harm, this one goes further, creating a restorative relationship with the environment. To me, this signals a shift in how we think about architecture—not just as something that “saves energy” but as something that contributes positively to its surroundings.


I also appreciate how it intertwines environmental and cultural sustainability. By using materials with local significance, the building becomes a living archive of its community. Imagine if every new structure reflected the stories and resources of its place in this way. It’s an approach that feels deeply human.


The Kendeda Building makes me wonder: Could more public institutions adopt this philosophy? Schools, libraries, even city halls could embrace restorative design, making every new building a step toward environmental and cultural regeneration.

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