Plans are underway for major renovations to the music building near 34th and Walnut streets.
The renovations will include the demolition of the building annex, which was built in the 1960s as an addition to the historic 19th century structure. In its place, the School of Arts and Sciences plans to construct a silver-level LEED-certified building.
The Philadelphia City Planning Commission approved zoning for the project in a meeting yesterday.
The LEED certification system grants silver-, gold- and platinum-level certification to buildings that meet exceptional sustainability standards.
In order to comply with the LEED certification, the building will include a number of environmentally-friendly features, including the use of existing materials in its construction.
Removing the annex "will create incredible open space along Smith Walk," said University Architect David Hollenberg.
The building addition will include classrooms, playing space and a recording studio, while renovations to the original building will create more offices.
Ann Beha Architects has nearly finished its design development for the project.
A start date has not been announced for the project because funding is not ready yet, according to Penn Facilities spokesman Andrew Zitcer.
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