One Haworth Center

By Editorial Staff - 20 October 2009

Haworth’s new headquarters in Holland, Michigan designed by Perkins+Will Architects deserves its sustainable architecture title. This long-standing manufacturer of office furniture is genuinely committed to sustainable business practices. Its rigorously environment-friendly new building has received a Gold LEED-NC rating, meeting all requirements in the five LEED categories: Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources, and Indoor Environmental Quality. Natural daylighting and greenery are an integral part of the building concept. They contribute to occupant - in this case employee - comfort and ensure energy savings. The wide expanse of roof uses 22,500 pre-planted LiveRoof modules. The 11 different plant species were farmed off-site with the result that the roof was truly operational from the outset without having to wait for plant growth as is the case for traditional green roofs planted only once installed. A green roof provides many advantages. It lowers roof surface temperature, retains storm-water and helps purify the surrounding atmosphere. As an insulator it lowers heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) costs, protects the underlying roof deck from UV radiation and weathering, and reduces heat dilation of roof components. A green roof is also a protected sanctuary for birds and insects, and a source of pleasure and sense of wellbeing for us humans. Last but not least, a green roof helps blend a building into its natural surrounds, creating a vital link between the built and natural world. The building’s large glazed façades also create a continuum between inside and out. As well as flooding the interior workstations with natural light, they provide wide views over the surrounding countryside. The open-space floorplan arranged on three decks overlooking a central entrance hall allows daylight to penetrate all office areas. The layout is one of untrammelled flexibility geared to providing pleasing...