FEATURED PROJECT

Florida Solar Energy Center
Brevard County, Florida

ADG performed master planning, architectural, and construction administrative services for the new Florida Solar Energy Center complex. The FSEC is affiliated with Florida's State University system as a part of the University of Central Florida.

First, the FSCE facility is technologically sophisticated similar to a courthouse facility. This facility incorporates video conferencing for lectures and special events which is the same technology used in courthouses. Additionally, the auditorium incorporates a number of computers and related presentation equipment, which is the same as the technology used in modern courtrooms.

The complex contains approximately 54,000 net assignable square feet and incorporates selected applications of solar and other energy conservation building techniques. The facility provides modern, state-of-the-art laboratories for research and testing as well as an education-oriented visitor's center devoted to disseminating information concerning renewable energy applications.

The Florida Municipal Power Agency (FMPA) is a consortium of Florida Cities, which broker electrical power to serve communities at the lowest possible energy cost. The Florida Municipal Power Agency's Executive Committee conducted an invited design competition for a new Corporate Headquarters; ADG was the winner of this competition.

The Corporate Headquarters consists of two-stories, 25,000 square feet and comprises administrative, conference areas, and meeting spaces for the many departments that form FMPA. The element of open space planning is incorporated in all major staff areas to maximize flexibility, efficiency and future expansion.

The focal point of the facility is the entry sequence which creates a strong first impression of timelessness, innovation and sustainable building practices. The sequence extends a dynamic visual vista through the building to a natural conservation area beyond to the northwest. The building is placed at an oblique angle on a generous lot which invites the eye to capture the unique attributes of the site and building instead of viewing the facility through a parking lot like most of the buildings in the Orlando Central Park location.

The client also wanted the lobby of the facility to address their mission of "energy consciousness". ADG used energy conserving architectural techniques, which includes north facing light monitors, exterior sun shade devices, high performance glass, and an entry lobby introducing the active HVAC systems as an exhibit of their mission.

ADG was selected by the City of Ocala to provide planning and design services for the City's Electric Utilities Administration Facility. This 30,000 square foot facility is a two story structure housing the administrative and financial services departments as well as a public use area.

The new Electric Utilities Administration facility located in downtown Ocala is co-sited with the City Hall on property previously utilized by the City Police Department. The building consists of approximately 30,000 square feet in a two story structure and has been designed to be expanded horizontally as well as incorporating a shell or unimproved areas for growth anticipated to occur in the next five year period.