Serving as a model for resilience and sustainability by demonstrating accessible methods to homeowners, developers and small business owners for living and building more sustainably, the structure is designed to “float” during major flooding to ensure operational continuity and demonstrate resiliency. The facility is also elevated on wooden piers 10 ft above ground level to mitigate flooding risks.

Photo courtesy Elizabeth River Project

The lab is strategically built on a former marina and social club site between an avenue and creek and has some of the fastest rising tides on the East Coast. It replaces an old bulkhead with a living shoreline, an educational park and a dock providing public access to self-guided and interactive tours. Interactive elements, such as information screens, a rain garden and rain barrel cisterns in the educational park demonstrate sustainable practices.

Photo courtesy Elizabeth River Project

The $8.3-million project was finished at budget and on schedule in 28 months.

Photo courtesy Elizabeth River Project

The 6,138-sq ft lab includes office spaces, meeting areas and educational facilities for the Elizabeth River Project, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving and restoring the Elizabeth River.

Photo courtesy Elizabeth River Project

Rooftop solar panels contribute to the lab’s goal of achieving net-zero energy use.