Acting both as the MEP and the LEED™ consultant for the project, the firm focused its design on energy efficiency, natural lighting, the use of sustainable materials and achieving excellent indoor air quality. Innovative design approaches included:

• Radiant cooling panels. Located on the ceiling and adapted to a building with operable windows, the panels represent the first use of this technology in the U.S.
• Variable air volume discharge rates. A single zone system takes advantage of varying fan speeds without the added expense of installation—resulting in space-wide comfort while substantially reducing energy consumption from the fan systems.
• Demand-controlled ventilation rates. Maximizing both occupant comfort and operating costs, the system introduces variable rates of ventilation air, based on occupant density.
• UV lights. UV lights incorporated into the design of the air handling units irradiate wet surfaces and thus eliminate the probability of spore entrainment.
• Water conservation techniques. Dual-flush toilets and waterless urinals minimize the use of water.

By incorporating innovative systems as well as sustainable and low VOC-emitting materials into the design, the engineering firm created one of the first commercial interior spaces to achieve LEED™ certification by the USGBC. In addition to demonstrating that this design approach can be cost effective and efficient, the new office affirms studies that indicate that sustainable office design increases productivity and well-being while reducing absenteeism and employee turnover.

The space serves as a blueprint for future sustainable office construction.