Portfolio: Planning

910 East Main Street, Norristown, PA

On behalf of a prospective buyer, we investigated the feasibility of converting a former pasta factory into Class A office spaces in as sustainable a manner as possible. The goal was to leverage the “factory” aesthetic of the existing building and create the greatest amount of leasable space while reusing as much of the existing building as possible. After surveying and documenting the existing building conditions, we reviewed the adaptability of the existing structure and M/E/P systems for its future use. Upon reviewing the zoning and building codes, we summarized the limitations and opportunities and made our recommendations. We identified and prioritized high performance building improvements, including daylighting, energy efficient lighting, significant reuse of existing resources, geothermal heating and cooling systems, and natural and mechanical ventilation. We identified potential federal tax credits that the building renovation would be eligible for if the high performance design was pursued. Our analysis and recommendations allowed our client to confidently proceed with the property purchase and begin design for the adaptive reuse of the factory.