In 2007, Walbridge relocated its world headquarters to a new semi-leased building in Detroit’s Campus Martius— the epicenter of the city’s revival. Walbridge acted as the owner and design-builder of two floors comprising over 50,000 square feet of LEED® Silver certified office space. Walbridge leaders believed creating an environmentally efficient office space for employees and the community was the right thing to do. The experience helped Walbridge better understand the benchmark system its clients use and allowed the company to have a direct and quantifiable impact on its building’s operation.
Site selection was crucial to meeting LEED requirements set forth by the U.S. Green Building Council. The One Kennedy Square building was selected because of an existing underground parking structure which provided space for car and van pools and the building’s close proximity to mass public transportation, retail, banking and restaurants.
To conserve energy, the facility’s exterior features a glazed curtain wall which, through careful design, allows natural light to penetrate deep into the office and afford maximum views from the inside out. Energy efficient lighting controls, with occupancy sensors, were installed to allow control over usage. In addition to reducing energy use, the natural light also promotes a feeling of well-being among employees. Additionally, Walbridge fitted kitchenette areas with ENERGY STAR Appliances, which use 10-50 percent less energy and water than standard appliance models.
Sustainable material selection was a driving force in the construction and furnishing of Walbridge’s new headquarters. Over 78 percent of construction waste was recycled and diverted from landfills. Walbridge reused 60 percent of the furniture from its former office space which eliminated additional landfill waste. A conscious effort was made to purchase furniture and building materials such as carpeting, ceiling tiles and wall board with recycled content. Over 56 percent of construction materials were purchased from local sources which minimized trucking and consequently the project’s carbon footprint. The team also used low volatile organic compound (VOC) adhesives, sealants, carpeting, office systems and paints to improve indoor air quality during construction and occupancy.
After moving into its new space, Walbridge enacted additional sustainability initiatives. The company purchased renewable energy certificates to offset 100 percent of its energy usage for two years— saving over 974,550 pounds of carbon dioxide annually. Walbridge also established a comprehensive office recycling program, and set up a green housekeeping program with the building’s maintenance staff.
Obtaining LEED Silver CI certification afforded Walbridge the opportunity to cultivate a new culture and identity. The new location promotes a more collaborative, open working environment, becoming the first phase in the corporate re-branding campaign.
Walbridge conducts an educational program incorporating informational signage and facility tours to share the company’s sustainable experience with employees, partners and the community.
If your group is interested in learning more about Walbridge’s green office space, please contact us >
