Bozeman Community Food Co-op

Bozeman’s Community Food Co-op nearly doubled in size with the expansion of its West Main facility. The two-story addition includes a commercial kitchen, receiving area, and high-bay storage, as well as offices and a large meeting room, efficiently consolidating all Co-op operations under one roof, replacing multiple off-site production facilities and offices.

Prioritizing a sustainable design approach that embraces Montana’s natural resources, the 23,000-square-foot expansion features a cross-laminated timber (CLT) structural system, a vegetated rooftop, and a cogeneration power system. These features reduce energy consumption and have long-term economic advantages. Cost-competitive CLT replaces similar, traditional structural materials and sequesters carbon. The green roof reflects less heat, exhales oxygen, and reduces the building’s cooling load. In addition, it creates habitat for birds and insects, mitigates stormwater runoff, and has an insulating effect. The cogeneration power system reclaims heat from the primary electrical heating system and preheats domestic hot water for kitchen use and preheat outside air.

Designed for longevity and to maximize future flexibility, the addition is distinct in form and general appearance, yet complements the existing building. The structural system, building envelope, and mechanical pathways comprise the building’s core and shell, which supports a variety of uses so that spaces can be easily reconfigured as needs and conditions change. Reflecting the priorities and values of its member-owners, the Bozeman Community Food Co-op addition models resilient, enduring, and sustainable design components that will keep the flexible building relevant to the community for decades, demonstrating unambiguous leadership in improving Bozeman’s built environment.