Florida International University
IN-1: Innovation 1

Designed by FIU students and faculty from the Colleges of Architecture + The Arts (CARTA) and Engineering and Computing (COEC), the PerFORM[D]ance House is a solar-powered house that performs in real time by sensing and responding to the generation and acquisition of energy, “dancing” in reaction to the external conditions of its environment and the internal conditions of its use. A contemporary interpretation of traditional porches, PerFORM[D]ance House is a versatile design that adapts to the local tropical climate and allows various levels of enclosure. Innovative, building-integrated photovoltaics and solar thermal systems provide the highest levels of comfort for residents and thelowest possible impact on the environment.

FIU’s PerFORM[D]ance House was selected to compete in the US Department of Energy’s Solar Decathlon held on the National Mall in Washington, DC from September 22 to October 2, 2011. This award-winning biannual program challenges 20 collegiate teams to design, build, and operate solar-powered houses that are cost-effective, energy-efficient, and attractive. FIU’s 2011 entry placed first in optimal energy production and maximum efficiency – a testament to the dedication and innovation of the FIU team.

FIU is installing the award-winning PerFORM[D]ance House on the Modesto A. Maidique Campus, which will serve as a center for community outreach programs and research focused on energy efficiency, sustainability and climate change. The home will be converted to office space to house the Office of University Sustainability whose mission is to help create a greener and more sustainable campus by educating students and the community about sustainable practices which will include showcasing:

· Energy efficient landscaping

· Edible landscapes

· Water conservation

· Waste minimization

· Energy-efficient construction design and appliances with renewable energy systems

The building will be a living laboratory and will serve as FIU’s hub to implement community outreach programs focused on energy efficiency and sustainability, while enhancing the interdisciplinary sustainable design curricula and facilitating interdisciplinary research that benefits units throughout FIU.