Editing Contemporary Architecture (section)

== Sustainable Design ==

Sustainability has become central concern for contemporary Philadelphia architecture, with buildings pursuing LEED certification and other environmental standards. The Comcast towers, Cira Centre, and other major projects incorporate energy-efficient systems, sustainable materials, and environmental management strategies. Smaller projects have explored passive design strategies appropriate to Philadelphia's climate, including natural ventilation, daylighting, and thermal mass that reduce energy consumption.<ref name="stern"/>

The Philadelphia 2030 plan established ambitious energy reduction targets for the city's building stock, encouraging both new construction efficiency and renovation of existing buildings. Contemporary architecture increasingly responds to these imperatives, treating environmental performance as design parameter rather than afterthought. Green roofs, solar installations, and stormwater management features have become common elements of contemporary Philadelphia buildings, their visibility demonstrating commitment to environmental responsibility.<ref name="davidson"/>