Herman Miller Inc. has achieved LEED-CI Gold certification for its Main Site B-West renovation. Originally designed by George Nelson in 1968, B-West encompasses 31,500 square feet within the company's Main Site headquarters facility in Zeeland, MI.
The distinguished Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) certification of B-West, marks the company's 13th LEED-certified space to earn the recognition, which measures high-performance interiors designed to reduce environmental impact.
"Herman Miller's commitment to build or renovate its spaces to LEED inspires us to think differently about how to maximize our products and capabilities to surpass that goal," says Ed Nagelkirk, senior manager of workplace strategy and facilities.
Several notable details qualified B-West for LEED-CI Gold, including:
- 40 new windows and seven new skylights
- C2 Climate Control desktop units for employees, rather than a complex HVAC system
- Locally manufactured materials
- Green housekeeping products
- 100 percent renewable energy
Additionally, the use of moveable plants and trees instead of walls brings employees closer to nature, while also serving as screens between high traffic pathways and private workspaces—a decision design leader Mark Gribbons sought to feature as an example of the company's commitment to sustainability.
"The goal was to create an environment that could shape itself around employees," explains Gribbons, a senior associate with IA Interior Architects. "We approached the project with modularity in mind, and natural elements, such as plants and trees, provide unmatched flexibility for space planning."
Originally utilized as Herman Miller's seating production facility, Building B and its truck well underwent a dramatic conversion to office space in 1980 and became the company's primary administrative center.
About Herman Miller Inc.
Herman Miller strives to create a better world around you—with inventive designs and services that enhance the places where people work, heal, learn and live, and through its commitment to social responsibility. For more information, go to www.hermanmiller.com.
