TYPE: Mixed-Use
STATUS: Built
EL RAISER is a mixed-use building consisting of commercial space under 28 residential units along the Market-Frankford line in Philadelphia’s East Kensington neighborhood. Building along an active rail line creates constant challenges to control noise and vibration. In place of the ubiquitous oversized glazing typical of most new multifamily housing, EL RAISER uses a series of tiny high-performance windows to punctuate its sound-attenuating double-wall assemblies and create a nuanced and restrained play of light in the interior. 3-season exterior balconies are designed as upper level “foyers” to the outside; operable windows allow users to close off this exterior space and let it function as an additional sound buffer. An extensive green roof above offers additional sound and thermal insulation, improves local air quality, and adds a peaceful and sustainable building amenity high above the city streets.
YEAR: 2017