Net-Zero Energy Luna Ecological Boutique Resort, Eastwick, Philadelphia

Project Year: 2020

Academic Project: Net-Zero First Studio, MS Sustainable Design 

Project is 20-rooms immersive ecological resort, retreat center, restaurant and will include a future working farm. The goal is to create minimal physical and environmental footprint by integrated combination of hospitality and sustainable resort management. The resort is located in southwest section of Philadelphia, Eastwick, which is situated along the Darby creek and John Heinz Wildlife refuge area. Net-zero energy building is achieved by holistic approach, strategic building orientation, passive heating and cooling design, natural daylight strategies, environment friendly building envelope and rooftop PV panels. 

Guest suites and retreat spaces are separated from public areas like restaurant, lobby, admin and fitness area for privacy purposes. Suites are facing south for natural daylight with appropriate shading. They are overlooking meadows and are opened to trails, further connecting to John Heinz refuge area. Site is covered with 100% native vegetation. Site has rainwater cisterns, constructed wetland and pond that collects 100% rainwater and stormwater on site, which is used for farming purposes.