Boston University's Center for Computing and Data Sciences (CCDS), known colloquially as the "Jenga building," has recently gained recognition by earning a place on the shortlist for two prestigious categories at the World Architecture Festival (WAF). The CCDS building, located at 665 Commonwealth Ave., has been nominated for the "Best Building of the Year" and "Best Interior Design" awards at the esteemed festival.
The innovative and visually striking structure was designed by KPMB Architects, with Paulo Rocha serving as one of the lead architects. According to Rocha, the team aimed to create a building that would leave a lasting impact on Boston and be revered as an icon by future generations. The CCDS project was initiated in response to the limited space for expansion on BU's campus, prompting the university to call upon top architects globally to propose their designs. After a meticulous selection process, KPMB's presentation and vision stood out among the competition.
The building's unique stacked structure, inspired by the concept of a vertical neighborhood, showcases a thoughtful approach to design that prioritizes the needs of the users. Rocha explained that the design revolves around the idea of creating "stacks of neighborhoods," fostering collaboration and wellness among different departments within the building.
Beyond its architectural brilliance, CCDS has also garnered recognition for its groundbreaking sustainability initiatives. The building has been certified LEED Platinum, attesting to its commitment to environmental consciousness. The CCDS operates as a carbon-neutral and 100% fossil fuel-free facility, relying on geothermal wells to heat and cool the building. Furthermore, the university purchases wind energy and resells it to consumers in the Midwest, contributing to its goal of zero carbon emissions.
Lisa Tornatore, the director of sustainability at BU, emphasized the university's aspiration to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040. The CCDS serves as an exemplar for large organizations seeking to embrace green practices and align with ambitious environmental goals.
With the "Higher Education and Research" category shortlisting at the WAF, the CCDS will be competing against 249 other buildings. The building's dramatic design and exemplary environmental thinking have caught the attention of the jurors. If successful in their category, the CCDS will advance to the "completed buildings" section of the competition and potentially earn the title of "World Building of the Year."
According to BU's Chief Data Scientist, Azer Bestavros, the CCDS is a testament to the university's commitment to functional, innovative, and sustainable spaces. The building serves as a campus upgrade and accommodates various disciplines, making it a hub for students and researchers alike.
Representatives from the CCDS will present the project at the WAF conference in Singapore from November 29 to December 1, where they will have the opportunity to secure top honors in their category. The CCDS has been previously nominated in the "Future Projects" category during its production phase, making this its second appearance on the WAF shortlist.
