Sources: Clark Pacific, West Sacramento, Calif.; CP staff
Clark Pacific has launched the NetZero Building Platform, a complete prefabricated system for next-generation office buildings that prioritize the environment and occupant wellness, and help owners and designers meet the 2030 Challenge. The American Institute of Architects-endorsed Challenge calls for new projects and major building renovations to be carbon neutral—operating free of fossil fuel greenhouse gas-emitting energy—by decade’s end.
Produced in a controlled casting environment with proprietary concrete mix designs, the architectural and structural precast-based NetZero Building Platform results in 28 percent less embodied carbon than a conventionally constructed office facility. Its integrated, thermally active radiant floor system reduces energy use and mechanical costs and, as part of an overall solution, provides building occupants 100 percent fresh air—a feature tied to healthier, more productive work environments. In addition, the floor system activates a building’s mass for up to 16 hours of solar energy storage.
The NetZero Platform optimizes structure, skin and mechanical systems for premium performance and design flexibility at a lower cost. While offsite fabrication can drastically change the way office projects are constructed, Clark Pacific officials note, the method is largely untapped since current practice focuses solely on moving work offsite but leaves the building fundamentally unchanged. The NetZero Building Platform reimagines not only how structures are constructed, but also their core integrated systems for optimal performance.
“While building owners want highly efficient, sustainable buildings, adding these features to conventional construction can be complex and require special designs that are often cost prohibitive,” says Clark Pacific Product Manager Jon Mohle. “As we look toward a more efficient building process and sustainable future, we’re committed to delivering innovative products, like the NetZero Building Platform, that drive construction forward and eliminate the need to sacrifice sustainability for cost.”
“The NetZero Building Platform is a wonderful example of what can be created when we work together,” observes Noah Zallen, principal mechanical engineer and radiant design practice lead for Integral Group, a consulting advisor to Clark Pacific. “By fully maximizing prefabrication and engineering integration, Clark Pacific has transformed what is normally a highly specialized bespoke process for world-class radiant buildings into a ready-to-go, flexible building system. The result directly solves the design, construction, performance and cost barriers to successful radiant buildings.