Energy Performance Optimized at Self-Storage Facility

CHALLENGE:Group One Partners, a prominent northeast architectural firm, was commissioned by Conroy Development to design a modern 100,000-sq.-ft. self-storage facility in Boston’s Seaport District. Led by Antonino Donato AIA, LEED AP, the design team created Boston Seaport Self Storage, a four-story facility with nearly 1000 self-storage units equipped with state-of-the-art technology, secure access and a climate controlled environment. INFLUENCE:Designers specified insulated metal panels for Boston Seaport Self Storage for two primary reasons. To withstand the often-frigid Boston weather, the energy performance of the selected cladding had to be excellent. Design flexibility was also of prime importance to make this facility stand out among the many conventional self-storage structures already operating in this market. SOLUTION:

Conroy Development wanted Boston Seaport Self Storage, constructed in the heart of South Boston, to have as many sustainable features as possible. For the building envelope, it specified Optimo Smooth by Kingspan Insulated Panels—North America. Optimo Smooth is a single component insulated metal panel product that allowed faster on-site installation compared to multi-part foam insulated panels. That minimized construction delays and also the need for multiple trades, thus saving the design team and owner substantial installation costs; the IMPs also reduce the building’s overall demand for energy. Because these insulated metal panels weigh only three pounds per square foot, transport costs and installation energy were also decreased. IMPs ease the critical path of construction, as they are easier to detail and attach, which tightened the build schedules. Kingspan Optimo Smooth IMPs not only contribute to LEED certification requirements, but also Path to Net-Zero Energy targets. As a contributing factor to a structure’s sustainability rating, the exterior skins contain a substantial amount of recycled content. These panels last as long as the service life expected of a standard commercial building and offer multiple end-of-life reuse options.

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