Project Description
FROM THE ARCHITECTS:
A quintessential historic New England small city, Montpelier required a new plan to become the first Net Zero state capital and an American role model of sustainable urban development. The non-profit corporation Net Zero Vermont announced a design competition to re-imagine their small city and White answered their open call for proposals with “In The Loop”.
The design builds on the premise that a truly sustainable future stretches beyond energy efficiency and renewal – and is essentially about human well being. White’s vision for Montpelier is to create a model which rises beyond Net Zero towards a level Net Zero+ a term coined by the design team which means Net Zero for now + long-term planning for future changes.
White’s proposal defines a new urban form for Montpelier defined by increased density and tangible amenities with better integration. The idea is to reduce daily commute time and offer comfortable and healthy alternatives – including walking and biking. Denser land use encourages a net zero lifestyle; improvement in operations not only reduces energy usage but also gives shape to public space. An active and populated public space brings people together and supports social interaction that will contribute to building a strong community and Net Zero future.