Powering the next generation of growth

Ushering in extensive upgrades to utilities and infrastructure across campus, Vanderbilt's Central Utilities Initiative is focused on continued efforts to address the university's carbon footprint while meeting growing campus demands. The new Highland Central Utility Plant is a prominent feature in this effort and is designed to replace aging equipment, increase capacity for utility generation within the system, and improve distribution lines. Operating as a carbon neutral campus since 2020, the facility positions Vanderbilt for continued success in achieving long-term carbon reduction goals.

The 68,000-square-foot building is home to new chilled water and hot water production capacity, a high-voltage substation, and includes space for future installation of thermal storage tanks for both hot and chilled water. With a goal of LEED Silver, it is also configured with flexibility in mind to allow for the generation of thermal utilities to pivot to alternative methods and emerging technologies in the future.

The plant's location was chosen for its proximity to an existing utility tunnel. Acting as a gateway to this urban university, the facility's architectural solution seeks to create a design dialogue with neighboring buildings and blend with the campus aesthetic. Sited adjacent to a student housing and recreation quad, the façade consists of large curtain wall openings that showcase the massive cooling and heating equipment and color-coded piping inside. Metal screens conceal the rooftop cooling towers from view.

Alongside infrastructure improvements, public education is also a goal of the program. A large canopy extends from the lobby over the front porch, welcoming visitors for educational events. Tours showcase the equipment and educate students and the public about the plant's operation and contributions to sustainability goals. The evolution of utility infrastructure on campus over time is a highlight – a custom-designed informational map and historic photography display visually interpret this story of progress and resilience at Vanderbilt.

Flad Architects (programming, site evaluation and planning, architectural design, interior design, and landscape design)
Affiliated Engineers, Inc. (engineer of record)