Gensler receives LEED Silver certification for firm's office

Gensler, the global design and planning firm, has received a LEED Silver certification for the firm's office at 1230 Avenue of the Americas. Awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council, the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Green Building Rating System (LEED) is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high performance green buildings and interiors. Gensler is the first office to become LEED-certified in Rockefeller Center. The office is only the third project to receive LEED certification in the category of Commercial Interiors (LEED-CI) in the state of New York. Gensler's LEED-CI certification recognizes the sustainable strategies implemented in the workplace and reflects the firm's commitment to green design and the creation of a healthy environment for staff. One of the key design objectives for the space, which features four exposures, was connectivity to natural light and views. This was achieved through the use of low workstations, minimal shading devices, no perimeter architectural elements, and open meeting spaces. The high level of natural light reduces the need for artificial lighting during the day and also cuts energy consumption. Other energy-saving elements include water-saving fixtures, which have realized better than 30% savings on water usage, and the use of Energy STAR-rated appliances and equipment wherever possible. Environmentally-sensitive furnishings, including multiple pieces custom-designed by Gensler, were made from recycled content or by means of green production practices and low-emitting VOC paints, adhesives, sealants and laminates were used throughout the office.