Zona Especial De Desarrollo (ZED)
As part of a special economic zone, SCB was solicited to develop design concepts for establishing the first net-zero commercial and technology center in Cuba. SCB’s design includes the conceptual plan for a multi-phased complex, which features mixed-use office buildings and industrial buildings.
The total building area will be 190,000 square feet, and will encompass a welcoming atmosphere, flexible office space, net-zero energy use. The building design will am for LEED certification. SCB utilized a cost-effective strategy to achieve a high-performance building with a net-zero energy goal. The proposed plan includes reducing the energy load by optimizing the building orientation, shape, and façade systems to maximize the passive design impact on daylighting and natural ventilation. To further reduce the energy consumption, a second step includes the use of efficient mechanical systems and renewable energy sources to achieve net-zero energy. Specifically, SCB recommended including wind turbines on-site and installing solar photovoltaic panels on the roof to generate power for the development.