Completion Date: August 2010
Square Footage: 23,000
LEED CI Platinum

The Washington, DC office of Perkins+Will integrates a contemporary open aesthetic with functional and programming requirements that include flexibility, transparency, and employee wellness in an environment that fosters collaboration as a key design tool.

Conceived as a sustainability showcase, the office features a self-contained passive solar hot water system that supplies the restrooms and café; the system’s pumps are powered by photovoltaic panels on the rooftop. Submeters separately monitor energy consumption for HVAC, lighting, computer and plug loads, and water use. Real-time consumption data is digitally displayed in the reception area. The office is projected to reduce from baseline levels overall energy consumption by 35%, water consumption by 40% (motion-sensor faucets, dual-flush control valves, waterless urinals), and lighting power by 35% (daylight sensors, LED and fluorescent technology, occupancy sensors). Ninety-five percent of construction waste was diverted from landfills; furniture not reused from the previous office was donated to local nonprofit organizations. The office has a comprehensive daily recycling program in place and buys 100% green power.