As part of their graduate degree program, students at the University of Kansas School of Architecture & Design constructed a house equipped with a 16-panel rooftop solar system.

The 432 Indiana Street House marks the 16th consecutive LEED Platinum project accomplished by Studio 804, an experiential learning initiative at the University of Kansas tailored for graduate students in their final year pursuing a Master of Architecture degree. Established in 1995 by Professor Dan Rockhill, the program involves students in the design, procurement, and construction of a full house within a nine-month timeframe each year.

Situated in the historic Pinkney Neighborhood, one of the city of Lawrence, Kansas’ oldest neighborhoods, the 1800-square-foot home and its adjacent 500-square-foot accessory dwelling unit offer proximity to parks, the Kansas (KAW) River, and the lively cultural scene of downtown Lawrence. This location provides an ideal setting to immerse oneself in Lawrence’s rich history while embracing the principles of sustainable living for the future.

With clearly outlined sustainability objectives, the students aimed to attain LEED Platinum certification by implementing a solar PV mounting system that offered a straightforward, cost-effective, and non-penetrative approach for attaching modules to the roof. Drawing from their experience with S-5! products on past Studio 804 metal roof endeavors, the students proactively engaged with the company for assistance.

Following the installation of the solar system, Studio 804 once more looked to S-5! for a meticulously engineered snow retention system that not only complemented the roof aesthetically but also had a lifespan equivalent to that of the roof itself. S-5! generously provided its ColorGard snow retention system, tailored and designed specifically for this project, to prevent any rooftop avalanches that could pose risks to residents or property below.