Case Study: Northeastern University transforms a former industrial site into a resilient innovation hub with Thornton Tomasetti

Northeastern University builds a 245,000 ft² low-carbon Roux Institute with Thornton Tomasetti

Northeastern University faced the challenge of transforming a historic baked bean factory site into a modern, sustainable, and resilient hub for innovation and education in Portland, Maine. They engaged the engineering firm Thornton Tomasetti to provide structural engineering, sustainability, and resilience services for this ambitious campus development.

Thornton Tomasetti implemented a multifaceted solution that included energy modeling, mass timber design, and a climate-risk resilience assessment. Their strategies resulted in a design targeting LEED v4 certification, a 25% carbon savings, and the elimination of fossil fuel use. Crucially, the building is designed to last 100 years and was raised by 10 feet to safeguard it from future sea-level rise, making it a resilient landmark. Thornton Tomasetti's integrated approach ensured the project successfully combined innovation with sustainability.

Northeastern University