BUFFALO, NY – SWBR is pleased to announce that Pan-American Square Apartments has officially been awarded Passive House certification through the Passive House Institute of the U.S. (PHIUS).
One of the most rigorous energy performance standards in the world, Passive House requires deep reductions in energy use while augmenting indoor comfort and air quality. PHIUS, the leading Passive House certifier in North America, adapts this global standard to local climates – proving that high-performance buildings can succeed anywhere, including Buffalo.
Completed in 2025, Pan-American Square transformed a long-vacant rail corridor into a 150-unit affordable supportive housing community. More than just filling a site, this project was about providing stable housing and on site supportive services to individuals within the city of Buffalo and surrounding locales.
As a net-zero, fossil-fuel-free facility, Pan-American Square operates with no on-site combustion or carbon emissions. All heating, domestic hot water, and building systems are electric, with power sourced from renewable energy supplied through coordinated off-site solar procurement – offsetting 100% of the building’s consumption. Electrical is delivered via the regional grid, ensuring redundancy while supporting New York State’s aggressive climate goals.
Every design decision was made to mitigate waste, incorporating triple-glazed windows, super-insulated walls, airtight construction, and energy-recovery ventilation, culminating in a space that is quiet and thermally consistent year-round. Durable, low-maintenance materials further decrease utility and operating costs amidst rising energy prices, bolstering affordability for both residents and ownership.
“This is a highly responsive design that directly benefits tenants while being a responsible steward of both the planet and the community,” said SWBR Architect Brett Gawronski, AIA, who served as project manager. “Success stemmed from close collaboration among dozens of experts – energy consultants, engineers, lighting specialists, envelope consultants, and utility providers – working in lock step through concept and move-in.”
Underscoring Buffalo’s commitment to improve quality of life for all, Pan-American Square also offers robust on-site services, encompassing case management, healthcare coordination, transportation assistance, and independent living skills education. Accessibility was paramount, with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) best practices integrated for residents with mobility, hearing, or visual impairments. An on-site commercial kitchen prepares daily meals, boosting wellness and social connection.
The project was previously honored with the 2025 Community Impact Award from the Buffalo/WNY Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), celebrating work that strengthens the cultural and urban fabric through inclusive, thoughtful approaches.
SWBR provided architecture, interior design, graphic design, structural engineering, and landscape architecture services.
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