Briger Hall, Commons and School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS) at Princeton University

Princeton University’s new laboratory and engineering building sets a precedent as the first all-electric science facility on campus. Atelier Ten supported the design team with integrated analysis and performance modeling, shaping everything from building massing and climate-responsive facade design to all-electric HVAC systems and rainwater reuse infrastructure.

A key driver for the building design was the early prioritization of passive design strategies. To support this, Atelier Ten conducted in-depth analysis of solar radiation, daylight, and shading and completed detailed life cycle cost studies across several proposed design scenarios. These analyses informed many design decisions, including the orientation and massing on site. The climate-responsive facade design with external sunshading (and operable windows in non-lab spaces) allows for optimized daylight access for lab, classroom, office, and student collaboration spaces—enhancing occupant wellness while reducing artificial lighting demands.

Material choices speak visibly to the campus environmental ethos. The exposed mass timber structure not only reduces embodied carbon but serves as a tactile signal to students, faculty, and visitors that sustainability is core to the project identity.

Green roofs help manage stormwater and foster habitat and biodiversity. Bird-safe facades, native landscape, and natural stormwater approaches such as bioretention also serve to reinforce the project’s strong connection to nature.

Atelier Ten’s energy modeling supported the design of all-electric HVAC systems, in lieu of a traditional steam-based infrastructure. High efficiency building systems include chilled beams, radiant heating and cooling, energy recovery ventilation, and occupancy-based controls to improve performance and reduce energy consumption.
Atelier Ten’s water balance analysis informed the design of the rainwater and clearwater harvesting system with reuse for toilet fixtures, significantly reducing potable water demand and supporting campus goals.