When multinational energy company Utilicorp United decided to renovate the former New York Life building in Kansas City, Missouri, for its headquarters, the challenge was to create a workplace that embodied a commitment to energy conservation and to the environment.
Pella® wood double-hung and fixed windows windows were selected because they enabled the architects to stay true to the Neo-Romanesque design of the building — maintaining its listing on the National Register of Historic Places — while effectively addressing energy efficiency through fenestration. Not only do wood window frames have excellent insulating properties, wood is a renewable resource. The use of this natural material underscored the company's commitment to sustainability.
The new operable double-hung units with Low-E insulating glass allow natural ventilation, a rare luxury for modern high-rise buildings. The design team made the most of the structure’s strengths — like the alignment and shape of the window openings and skylights, which allow abundant daylight to penetrate deep into interior spaces. The building’s use of windows makes natural illumination one of its more important energy-saving features.
Today the building is the perfect blend of past and present — honoring the elegance of the original structure while making use of today's innovative products.
The architects specified clear, Low-E glass that looked like the original clear plate glass and minimized solar heat gain and ultraviolet light.
Related Stories
| Jun 7, 2012
WDMA and FMA to affiliate and integrate operations
Over the coming months both organizations will begin the process of formalizing the details of the agreement for final approval by both organizations, with the formal change expected to take effect in January 2015.
| Jun 1, 2012
New BD+C University Course on Insulated Metal Panels available
By completing this course, you earn 1.0 HSW/SD AIA Learning Units.
| Jun 1, 2012
AIA 2030 Commitment Program reports new results
The full report contains participating firm demographics, energy reduction initiatives undertaken by firms, anecdotal accounts, and lessons learned.
| May 29, 2012
Reconstruction Awards Entry Information
Download a PDF of the Entry Information at the bottom of this page.
| May 24, 2012
2012 Reconstruction Awards Entry Form
Download a PDF of the Entry Form at the bottom of this page.
| May 15, 2012
SAGE Electrochromics to become wholly owned subsidiary of Saint-Gobain
This deal will help SAGE expand into international markets, develop new products and complete construction of the company’s new, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Faribault, Minn.
| May 8, 2012
WDMA and AAMA release window, door & skylight market studies
Historic data for 2006 through 2011 and forecast data for 2012 through 2015 are included in the report.
| Apr 30, 2012
Summit Design + Build completes build-out for Office Concepts
The project is seeking LEED ID Silver certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.
| Apr 5, 2012
5 tips for a successful door and window retrofit
An exclusive tip sheet to help the Building Team manage door and window retrofits successfully.
| Mar 30, 2012
New windows and doors revitalize older buildings
With their improved aesthetics, energy efficiency, and durability, replacement windows and doors can add significant value to a renovation project.