Aug 3 2018
First GREEN Bank, an Orlando-based bank with deep commitment to the environment and a global mission, has launched its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) ID+C Retail v4 Platinum Certification for its downtown Orlando headquarters. The designation identifies the location as acquiring the greatest level of environmental and social performance, transparency, and accountability.
For the completion of this project, First GREEN Bank selected The Collage Companies and its group of professionals as its design-builder. The Collage Companies is likewise committed to applying green building solutions and LEED practices, and collaborated with First GREEN Bank to develop the first project across the globe to be awarded the highest level of certification by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) under the LEED v4 ID+C: Retail rating system.
Developed by the USGBC, the LEED rating system is the leading program for homes, buildings, and communities that are designed, built, maintained, and operated for enhanced environmental and human health performance. In the recent past, the USGBC launched its latest version, LEED v4, which has more stringent demands. It is not easy to receive LEED Platinum; however, the tactical decision to refurbish an existing space, rather than building a completely new structure, rendered it even more difficult. The renovation strategy was taken to minimize environmental impact; however, new difficulties arose in the areas of engineering, design, and construction, specifically because the team was resolute to fulfill the most stringent LEED guidelines.
While many businesses are able to provide sustainability solutions by designing a prototype building and reproducing the same building around the country, First GREEN Bank has instead historically chosen the more challenging route of designing to the needs of existing buildings. Then, by not just seeking to meet minimum standards for certification, they not only strive for the highest level of certification and actually do more for sustainability than required. They also are strict about budget and return on investment. It’s exciting to work on this kind of challenge. It tests your creativity and real-world experience.
Fred Muscatello, President of FCM Engineering & LEED Administrator
The project executed practical and measurable strategies and solutions, the aim of which was to accomplish high performance in the areas of materials selection, water savings, indoor environmental quality, and energy efficiency. The focus of the researchers involved was also on design innovation and, the new component for LEEDv4, location and transportation.
We’re excited to be part of such a meaningful initiative and to have earned such a prestigious designation. Sustainability is at the heart of what we do and who we are, so being recognized as the first in the world to receive the LEED v4 ID+C: Retail Platinum Certification is an honor.
Ken LaRoe, Founder & Chairman of First GREEN Bank.
Moving forward, Collage Companies will sponsor First GREEN Bank’s September event, Central Florida for Good. The event celebrates First GREEN Bank’s LEED v4 ID+C: Retail Platinum Certification and includes a “What is a B Corp?” learning session for local businesses to teach them how to run a business that fulfills the standards of environmental and social performance, transparency, and accountability.