High Performing Buildings - Spring 2008 - (Page 46) ground as required by the Historic District Commission. In addition, the Historic District Commission was concerned about the appearance of new windows. The existing windows were large double hung units. Our task was to provide high performance thermal-glazed windows with intermediate mullions that matched the original and met the Massachusetts State energy code as well. As a public project, we could not provide a proprietary specification. Instead, we wrote a performance specification with historic detail and high performance requirements that several manufacturers could meet. We received prices from manufacturers who had high performance windows that matched the original profile. The local historic commission accepted these windows, albeit with applied mullions that matched the historic profile. The redesign is an innovative marriage of old and new and sets an example of municipal responsibility around environmental and historic preservation issues. Historic detailing on the interior and exterior respects the original building design. Old photographs and original architectural drawings guided the restoration of the brick parapets. This work required skilled masons to recreate the ornate patterns. Inside, wood paneling and lighting fixtures reflect the civic nature of the building while incorporating the latest technology, including motion-sensitive lighting controls. In the main public hearing room, a wide range of modern audiovisual equipment is available. The new main entry, reoriented from a side Photo Courtesy of the Cambridge Historical Commission 1871 Before fire and destruction of mansard roof. 1899 Rebuilt with parapets after fire. Photo Courtesy of HKT Architects, Inc. 46 2000 In disrepair. HIGH PERFORMING BUILDINGS Spring 2008 2004 After renovation. © Dan Gair/Blind Dog Photo, Inc. Photo Courtesy of the Cambridge Historical Commission
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