Photo courtesy JZA+D
The mixed-income development 30 Mac, which opened its doors in Princeton, New Jersey last summer, has been awarded the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification under LEED for Homes.
Integrated design firm Joshua Zinder Architecture + Design (JZA+D) designed the unique adaptive reuse project of a former Masonic temple. The building has been fully occupied and tenants have moved into all 10 units, including the two earmarked as affordable housing.
Joshua Zinder, architect and managing partner of JZA+D, spearheaded the project for development group Princeton Maclean Partners LLC, transforming the historic Aaron Lodge No. 9 originally built in 1924.
“Our goal was to introduce much-needed new residential units to this significant neighborhood while making 30 Mac a sustainable, environmentally-minded experience for residents and neighbors,” said Zinder. “At the same time, we wanted to preserve a locally iconic building, venerating the classic distinction of this historic neighborhood.”
To realize an eco-friendly development, the design of the 706-m2 (7600-sf) residence includes high-efficiency mechanical systems, lighting, and plumbing fixtures, and incorporating features that take advantage of the walkable neighborhood just a few minutes from Princeton’s downtown. For example, a bicycle storage room in the elevator tower appended to one side of the building encourages residents to drive less. The design also includes sustainable landscaping with new trees and plantings and a shared patio area.
“By reusing wood, concrete, and steel, we are avoiding much of the impact on the environment that comes with new construction,” said Zinder. “In this case, we were able to combine reuse with historic preservation to retain the look of the original facade, restoring or recreating many of the original architectural details.”
Inside, the gut renovation introduced units of varying sizes and floor plans including some split-level apartments, appointed with contemporary materials and finishes.
