AIA National COTE Award: St. Patrick’s Cathedral

The restoration of St. Patrick’s Cathedral presented MBB with the opportunity to take on the challenge of improving energy efficiency while preserving a historic building. Investigations into methods for improving access, increasing flexibility and restoring original features went hand in hand with measures to reduce air infiltration, improve lighting, and more effectively and efficiently control interior temperatures. Alterations and improvements made in the interest of maintaining and preserving the cathedral and to increasing its sustainability and resiliency were also intended to enhance the experience and well-being of congregants and visitors. Since its completion, the restoration of the Cathedral has served as a case study of energy efficient design in a landmarked building.