University of Kansas Studio 804
Sustainable Housing Project

About the Client

Studio 804 is a nationally recognized design-build program at the University of Kansas School of Architecture & Design. Each year, graduate students complete a full-scale sustainable building project that meets the highest environmental standards, often achieving LEED Platinum certification.

Through advanced construction techniques, renewable energy integration, and passive design strategies, Studio 804 continually demonstrates how thoughtful design can reduce environmental impact while maximizing comfort and performance.

Learn more about Studio 804’s designs at http://www.studio804.com/

Challenges

Studio 804 prioritizes sustainability, efficiency, and innovation in every aspect of its projects. Integrating code-compliant, aesthetically pleasing, and high-quality power solutions into these design-builds presents several challenges. Traditional wall outlets can create insulation gaps that increase energy consumption.

Additionally, sustainable housing designs often incorporate floor-to-ceiling windows to reduce environmental impact and improve energy efficiency. Modern sustainable builds also favor open-concept layouts, which limit available wall space and create electrical code challenges typically addressed by conventional outlets.

How Lew Electric Provided Solutions:

Lew Electric’s floor box power solutions provided a code-compliant alternative to traditional wall outlets. On exterior-facing walls, this allowed the customer to eliminate standard receptacles, preventing the heat transfer and energy loss that can occur through conventional outlets. Maintaining continuous insulation without gaps further reduced energy inefficiencies. The same advantages applied to exterior walls featuring floor-to-ceiling windows.

In interior open spaces with limited or no wall surfaces, Lew Electric’s floor boxes offered the same code-compliant flexibility. The floor boxes’ strategic placement enabled thoughtful furniture layouts, allowing occupants to place lighting and charge devices conveniently. Additionally, the floor boxes’ rugged, durable construction—built to withstand foot traffic—helped ensure long-term performance and efficiency in these sustainable builds.

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Results

Lew Electric’s in-floor power solutions were a key component in bringing the design students’ vision to life. We provided nontraditional power options that conveniently popped up for easy access and remained securely hidden when not in use. Our sleek stainless-steel covers complemented other metal finishes throughout the build, while the fully ETL-listed and UL-compliant design ensured a safe and effective way to deliver power in a nontraditional setting. Finally, our lead-free materials offered an environmentally responsible solution—an important requirement in sustainable construction. Studio 804 is another example of how Lew Electric is “Providing The Power To Design Your Vision”

Learn more about Lew Electric’s in floor power solutions at www.lewelectric.com