Objectives
The Ragon Institute – a joint venture between Massachusetts General Hospital, MIT, and Harvard wanted to create a new state-of-the-art facility for patient care that bridged medical innovation with environmental sustainability. They wanted to make sure the new building would not only better the community medically but also ensure community safety through a commitment to sustainability for all future hospital renovations.
Solutions
To support the hospital’s dedication to sustainability, Jandris Block collaborated closely with the project managers to guarantee the adoption of CarbonX Concrete Masonry Units (CMU). By opting for CarbonX CMU, the hospital has successfully reduced the amount of cement utilized during production, resulting in enhanced atmospheric carbon sequestration. Moreover, the CMU’s composition facilitates a reaction between carbon dioxide in the surrounding air and its components, effectively sequestering the carbon dioxide as calcium carbonate within the blocks. This innovative approach transforms the CMU into a carbon sink, contributing to the hospital’s sustainable initiatives. The block selected for building construction ensured the Ragon Institute’s promise of a green building and complemented the surrounding architecture.
Results
Through this collaborative effort, the new space represents the hospital’s world-class research, and Cambridge’s exceptional biomedical ecosystem, with a beautiful and functional design. CarbonX CMUs contributed to the building’s functionality while creating a visually striking structure that aligns perfectly with the project’s objectives. The sleek combination of the mirror glass and ash grey CMU in the building construction contrasted well with the greenery added to the rooftop common area and the park surrounding the building.
Team & Location
Designer: Payette
Producer: Jandris Block
Installer: Pizzotti Bros Masonry
Project Location: Cambridge, MA