The Ryan Resilience Lab, designed by Work Program Architects for the Elizabeth River Project, is a state-of-the-art facility in Norfolk, Virginia, that demonstrates accessible and innovative approaches to resilience and sustainability. As Virginia’s first planned redevelopment in an urban floodplain designed to model environmental resilience, the 6,500-sf facility integrates cutting-edge strategies for flood adaptation, carbon reduction, and community engagement.
The lab serves as a living demonstration site, showcasing real-world solutions that homeowners, developers, and businesses can adopt to address sea level rise and climate challenges. With a net-zero energy goal, the facility incorporates solar power, rainwater collection, green roofs, and living shorelines, transforming the site into a hub for sustainability, education, and ecological restoration.
A living laboratory redefining
how cities live with water
Flood Resistant Design
- Elevated building with all mechanical and electrical systems above the 100-year floodplain
- Flood-proofing strategies using off-the-shelf materials
- Floating dock and boardwalk observatory, designed to adapt to rising sea levels
Sustainable Water Management
- Green roofs and rain gardens to reduce stormwater runoff
- Cisterns for rainwater collection, supplying non-potable water for toilets
- Living shorelines and pervious paving to enhance stormwater infiltration
Energy and Environmental Resilience
- 80kWh solar panel array for on-site energy generation
- High-efficiency HVAC and LED lighting to minimize energy consumption
- Cool roofs and green walls to reduce heat gain and improve energy efficiency
- Sustainably sourced materials, including FSC-certified wood and recycled finishes
Cultural and Community Engagement
- Outdoor classrooms and public gathering spaces for education and events
- Art installations highlighting climate adaptation and sea level rise
- Compost drop-off and eco-friendly business initiatives promoting a green economy
Planned Retreat Strategy
- Engineered for a 50-year lifespan, ensuring the site can be safely dismantled with minimal environmental impact
- Rolling conservation easement, the first commercial application in the U.S., preserving the shoreline as sea levels rise
The Ryan Resilience Lab serves as a national model for urban floodplain redevelopment. By integrating cost-effective, scalable solutions, the project empowers communities to adapt to climate change while fostering economic and environmental sustainability.
