The College of Architecture and Environmental Design at Kent State University has been a long time advocate of sustainable design education, research, and practice and, for the last two years, an adopter of Edward Mazria’s 2030 architectural challenge to design buildings that approach carbon neutrality. In response to the challenge this event will take place to celebrate the fourth year comprehensive design studio by exhibiting the students work.

The projects presented will demonstrate the use of passive and active climate responsive design principles to create a highly efficient facility while trying to achieve a livable, comfortable and healthy environment in harmony with the place in which the project is perceived. This project explores the use of different simulation software and design tools and methods to achieve and evaluate climate-based strategies. Students explored the use of innovative materials, lighting, HVAC, water conservation, and structural systems to achieve these goals.