Vacon, a Finland based manufacturer of variable speed AC drives, selected the design/build team of SGS Architects and Brechbill & Helman Construction Company to design and construct a North American headquarters facility in Chambersburg.
The project is registered with the United States Green Building Council.
The project includes 50,000 square feet of lab, testing, assembly and distribution space, and 17,000 square feet of office space.
Cutting edge energy conservation techniques were employed in the design process. White TPO membrane and white standing seam roofing help reflect the heat from the sun. Additional insulation, energy recovery ventilators and programmable HVAC controls were installed. The use of punched windows in lieu of strip windows on the south side of the building was incorporated in the design to aid in the energy conservation strategy. Mechanical and electrical systems were instrumental in accruing sufficient LEED credit points to achieve a silver rating.
The building was carefully situated on the site to minimize the amount of fill required. Site enhancements include organic, native, and water efficient landscaping, and a walking path for the employees.