Nixon Peabody's Albany office receives LEED Silver designation; Designed by SWBR and developed by Sano Rubin Const.

International law firm Nixon Peabody LLP has achieved Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver certification by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) of the firm's area office. The office, a model of sustainable design, green building techniques, and a healthy work environment, was recognized as a leading example of a green, energy efficient and high performing building. This is one of the first law firm spaces in the Capital Region to receive LEED certification and among the few building projects in upstate New York to have received the distinction. The office is located on 667 Broadway. "Being awarded LEED Silver certification is exciting news for all those in our Albany office and our colleagues across the firm," said Andrew Rose, managing partner of the office. "This new, 'green' office not only enables us to expand our presence in the Capital Region, but to do so through sustainable efforts." The green office, which opened in mid-2008, was designed by SWBR Architects and developed by Sano Rubin Construction. The space features systems designed to reduce water and energy consumption, while also purchasing Green E-Tradable Renewable Certificates for 100% of total energy consumption. In addition, the design incorporates the Daylight Harvesting System, a daylight responsive system which senses the amount of natural light coming into the office and automatically adjusts the internal lighting. All of the materials used in the millwork are from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood obtained from local supplies (within 500 miles). The contractor also implemented a management plan to recycle or salvage more than 50% of construction waste. Additionally, all existing equipment, furniture and appliances have either been donated or reused elsewhere. Robyn Churchill, office administrator and a supervisor on the project said, "Our strong commitment to green building practices is part of our larger commitment to implement sustainable practices firmwide throughout the communities in which we work and live. Our focus on promoting a healthy and environmentally responsible workplace demonstrates our dedication to being the best firm to work with and the best firm to work for." The office is the firm's second office to obtain USGBC certification under its LEED program. In 2007, the firm's San Francisco office received LEED certification, and with this distinction, Nixon Peabody became one of the first law firms in the U.S. to be LEED-certified in the category of "Commercial Interiors." Additionally, the firm's N.Y.C. office is currently applying for LEED certification for its green renovation efforts in the space. Nixon Peabody LLP is recognized as a "Global 100" law firm—one of the largest in the world. With 800 attorneys collaborating across major practice areas in 17 cities, including Boston, Chicago, London, Los Angeles, New York, Paris, Rochester, San Francisco, Shanghai, Silicon Valley, and Washington, DC, the firm's size, diversity, and advanced technological resources enable it to offer comprehensive legal services to individuals and organizations of all sizes in local, state, national, and international matters. Nixon Peabody LLP was recognized as one of FORTUNE magazine's "100 Best Companies To Work For®" three years in a row. The firm has also been named to the Human Rights Campaign's 2009 "Best Places To Work For LGBT Equality" list.