 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Marketplace Turns Green to Gold
Zeeland, MI, March 2003 - Green design means a Gold U.S. Green Building Council,
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED™) rating for the Herman
Miller Marketplace, Zeeland, MI. Marketplace is Michigan's first LEED™ Gold new
construction project, first developer owned project, and joins less than a dozen USGBC
LEED™ Gold certified projects nationwide. This distinction places Marketplace among
the country's best buildings defined by environmental responsibility, construction and operating costs,
and as a healthy place to live and work.
Demonstrating that sustainable, green design does not have to cost more, Marketplace's
construction cost of $89/s.f. price is 33% below the norm and its documented operation
cost savings are 41% below average. The Granger Group delivered their intellisys™
building model as a solution balancing Herman Miller's commitment to the environment,
aggressive economic goals, and high quality design.
"Our expectation was to work with Herman Miller to provide them with a LEED™
certified, leased office property that would be nothing less than a great place to work,"
said Gary Granger, PE & President. "The intellisys™ building, features a central light
well, open ceilings, tall windows and high energy efficiency. The intellisys™ process and
this project were ebraced by Herman Miller and has become a showplace for the kit-of-
parts process, sustainable design and work place efficiency studies."
"Marketplace is a prime example of how Herman Miller continues to take a leadership
role in bringing the environmental sustainability ethic to the corporate workplace," says
Len Pilon, director of Workplace Strategy and Facilities. "We're very proud that even
our leased facilities embody our commitment to the environment."
"This project is sure to draw attention from around the country," added U.S. Green
Building Council President & CEO Christine Ervin. "Marketplace is an outstanding
demonstration of businesses simultaneously achieving strong economic and environmental
performance through smart building design."
Marketplace architect, Mike Corby, AIA, of Integrated Architecture, Grand Rapids,
created a building filled with what he terms the new luxuries for the 21st Century:
natural light, fresh air and space. "Green design can be realized by using simple,
sustainable materials carefully placed within a glass and concrete envelope," Corby
stated. "The resulting space is crafted for maximum human comfort. When you enter
the building you are welcomeed by the sound of running water and lush green plants,
and no matter where you go you are always near a natural light source."
Home to several Herman Miller departments, the building's open floor plan can also be
easily configured to meet changing needs. The building's open and airy design has earned
kudos from employees and visitors alike for everything from its central outdoor courtyard
to the inventive use of bold graphic images.
