Seth Clarke
Username
Seth Clarke
Proposer First Name
Seth
Proposer Email
sclarke@bensonwood.com
Proposer Last Name
Clarke
Proposer Company/Organization
Bensonwood
Proposer Phone
(603) 756-3600 x125
Proposer Job Title
Architect | Director of Preconstruction
Boston 2023 Areas of Focus
Proposer Additional Info
We're back! We submitted a similar proposal last year showcasing the same project. Reviewers said it was very warmly received but they encouraged us to apply again for 2024 once there was performance data to back up our projections.
Proposed Session Description
Panel discussion to share Tufts University's Wood Frame Dormitory projects as a model for small and scalable, wood-based pre-fab construction as a faster solution to housing needs when land is scarce/expensive or where budgets and timelines may not allow for larger scale, multi-year projects.
Diversity and Inclusiveness
We'll be discussing the interface with communities at large outside of the university, working in two of the largest Boston area suburbs of Somerville and Medford MA. Our design discussion will also address efforts to make projects accessible, welcoming and exceed code standards for students of all special need requirements.
Learning Objectives
How institutions can think differently about a more sustainable construction methods while solving their immediate housing and other needs
How Passive House level performance can be achieved with wood-based construction methods.
How master-planning work can anticipate an eventual project team and winning solution for clients.
How offisite construction methods can dramatically improve outcomes in air-tightness, project schedule and risk management.
Has this session been presented before?
No
Target Audiences Level of Expertise
Level 2 - Some prior knowledge helpful.
Session Format
Interview or structured conversation among panelists
Presentation followed by facilitated discussion or breakout groups
Session Format Details
30-40 minute project presentation/discussion by panelists, followed by 20min Q&A.
Recommended Length
60-minute session
90-minute session
Strongest Content Connection - Boston 2023
Anything else you'd like to tell us about your session proposal?
This year we are prepared to present the results of the blower door tests (averaged at 0.3 ACH50) and HERS ratings (average score of 42) as well as an assessment of the carbon content found in the building construction.
Reviewer 1
Veerkamp, Danny
Proposal #
212
Committee Decision
Rejected
Presenters
Full Description
Colleges and Universities care deeply about protecting the environment for future generations, but they must also reconcile this with a struggle to accommodate an ever-increasing demand for on-campus housing to match their development goals, particularly where the cost and limited availability of large sites is concerned. This scalable and decentralized form factor of smaller wood-framed construction is a way to help institutions lead the change to a more sustainable method of construction. The use of bio-based materials and shorter construction duration as a priority also deserves study for wider application.