Like many 19th-century industrial facilities, the Ambler Boiler House long ago outlived its initial use. Built in 1897 to generate power for an asbestos plant, the structure was abandoned when the owner folded after the Depression. In the early 2000s, Summit Realty Advisors bought the site, appreciating its proximity to a rail stop—Philadelphia is 40 minutes away by train—as well as good roads and utility services.
The 2008 crash delayed plans, but three years later, construction of an office complex began. Summit used creative financing, including state and county funds, to realize this speculative project in tough economic times.
Asbestos was remediated with the help of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and state grants and loans. The endeavor required 760 man-hours of labor and the removal of 530 cubic yards of contaminated construction debris and waste. All that remained was a brick shell and steel roof trusses.
AMBLER BOILER HOUSE
Ambler, Pa.Building TeamSubmitting firm: Heckendorn Shiles ArchitectsOwner/developer: Summit Realty AdvisorsOwner’s representative: The AT GroupStructural engineer: Elton & ThompsonMEP engineer: PHY EngineersGeneral contractor: DomusGeneral InformationSize: 48,000 sfConstruction cost: $16 million (core and shell)Construction time: 2011 to August 2013Delivery method: Design-bid-build
The former two-story plan entailed excessive floor-to-floor heights for offices, so the Building Team, led by Heckendorn Shiles Architects, inserted structural steel and concrete slabs to create three levels. Entryways and windows, many of which had been walled up, were reopened and infilled with high-efficiency store-front glazing. An iconic 140-foot smokestack was retained, and the original monitor roof profile, now equipped with translucent composite clerestories, enhances daylighting. Loft-style office spaces are characterized by references to the past, including exposed brick and reclaimed wood. However, the infrastructure is thoroughly modern. In particular, a 54-well geothermal system makes the building economical to operate, contributing to a LEED Platinum designation.
Since it opened in August 2012, the development has attracted a mix of tenants, including Summit Realty, Clutch (a mobile app designer), and AEC firm Core States Group. DiD, a boutique healthcare marketing agency, recently completed a two-story fit-out, with an open communicating stair and a “village green” common space. Ambler Boiler House—first an economic engine, then an eyesore—is most emphatically back in business.
Related Stories
Architects | Mar 15, 2021
A life in architecture – Lessons from my father
A veteran designer looks back on the lessons his father, a contractor, taught him.
Architects | Mar 11, 2021
Calling all building design professionals: BD+C needs your expertise on design innovation in 2021
This new BD+C research project explores the leading drivers, sources of inspiration, and successful outcomes for design innovation projects and initiatives.
Coronavirus | Mar 11, 2021
The Weekly show, March 11, 2021: 5 building products for COVID-related conditions, and AI for MEP design
This week on The Weekly show, BD+C editors speak with AEC industry leaders about building products and systems that support COVID-related conditions, and an AI tool that automates the design of MEP systems.
Laboratories | Mar 10, 2021
8 tips for converting office space to life sciences labs
Creating a successful life sciences facility within the shell of a former office building can be much like that old “square peg round hole” paradigm. Two experts offer important advice.
AEC Tech | Mar 4, 2021
The Weekly show, March 4, 2021: Bringing AI to the masses, and Central Station Memphis hotel
This week on The Weekly show, BD+C editors speak with AEC industry leaders about the award-winning Central Station Memphis hotel reconstruction project, and how Autodesk aims to bring generative design and AI tools to the AEC masses.
Architects | Mar 1, 2021
OMA designs 7-mile-long underwater sculpture park
The project will be completed in several phases.
Architects | Mar 1, 2021
AIA elevates 102 members to the College of Fellows
AIA fellowship recognizes significant contributions to the profession of architecture and society.
Market Data | Feb 24, 2021
2021 won’t be a growth year for construction spending, says latest JLL forecast
Predicts second-half improvement toward normalization next year.
Events Facilities | Feb 22, 2021
Weiss/Manfredi designs $250 million expansion for Longwood Gardens
The project will transform 17 acres of the core conservatory area.