Harvard university Treehouse Conference Center

TERVA Engineering is providing commissioning services for Harvard University Treehouse Conference Center (TCC). 

A beacon in more than just image, the TCC will lead by example with a design that achieves ambitious sustainability goals beyond typical compliance measures. As part of the climate-positive approach, the TCC will have a low-carbon mass timber structure, highly efficient conditioning and lightening systems, and robust water management infrastructure. Healthy materials and excellent interior air quality are also central to the design. In addition to meeting Harvard’s Green Building Standards, the project will be connected to Harvard’s District Energy Facility, include onsite renewable energy sources and target the International Living Futures Institute Living Building Challenge Core Certification, with the expectation of also pursuing Living Building Challenge Materials Petal Certification pending a feasibility study.

The program consists of two roof-mounted HVAC units delivering conditioned air to four pipe underfloor and overhead terminal fan coil units for spaces which include demand control ventilation sensors in the zones. Other spaces include kitchens, administration, technical and lobby gathering spaces. 

TERVA will assist Harvard for the first year of operation to efficiently transfer operational control of the building to the facilities staff.

Client:  Harvard University
Location:  Boston, MA
Project Size:  65,000 square feet
Architect:  Studio Gang
Engineer:  Arup
Contractor:  Consigli