David Rubenstein Treehouse

Safe smoke and heat exhaust technology for Harvard’s first solid building

With the David Rubenstein Treehouse, Harvard University has created far more than just a university-wide conference and events centre. As the first solid timber building on campus, it symbolises Harvard’s path towards a more sustainable, climate-friendly future.

Designed by the renowned architectural firm Studio Gang, the building serves as a pilot project for Harvard’s new Sustainable Building Standards (SBS) – a set of guidelines that defines the highest standards for climate protection, health and resource efficiency. The David Rubenstein Treehouse consistently meets these standards: It operates entirely without fossil fuels, is supplied with energy from a rooftop photovoltaic system and, thanks to its solid timber construction, reduces CO₂ emissions by around 60 per cent compared with conventional construction methods. Innovative recycled building materials, locally sourced materials and a rainwater management system that utilises or retains more than 90 per cent of annual rainfall on site complement the sustainability concept.

For the smoke and heat exhaust system (SHEV), the challenge was to find a solution that would comply with strict North American fire safety regulations whilst also supporting the building’s overall sustainability strategy. Together with the design and construction partners, D+H partner AFI (Automated Fenestration Inc.) developed an efficient solution that meets all requirements for safety, functionality and long-term operation.

Twelve window drives from the KA series were used – a robust and durable SHEV chain drive for surface-mounted installation, which has been a tried-and-tested classic in the D+H portfolio for decades. As part of the smoke and heat exhaust ventilation system, the drives control the natural smoke exhaust vents in the atrium and ensure reliable smoke extraction during a fire event. For use in North America, they were fitted with a special audible feedback system that signals both the full opening and full closing of the windows. This feedback is an essential requirement of the fire safety regulations in force there.

The result is a building that combines sustainable construction, safety and high standards of comfort to provide students and teaching staff with a pleasant learning and working environment. AFI received the D+H Atmosphere Award ‘Silver’ 2026 for the implementation of the project.