It's inspiring commercial real-estate developers to sit up and take notice, and in some cases to risk spending a bit more up front for buildings that will save substantially over their lifetimes. Topping the list is the White House, which has been the subject of an extensive and much-publicized green makeover. Steps taken have included upgrading fixtures and bulbs to the most energy-efficient designs, reducing emissions of volatile organic compounds, and using integrated pest management to cut back on pesticide use. The Way Station mental-health facility in Frederick, Maryland, has reduced energy consumption by 75 percent through the extensive use of daylighting. Even the Pentagon is thinking of greening its building.
Green buildings are by no means limited to the nation's capital, however.
The Natural Resources Defense Council and National Audubon Society buildings in New York City are well known for their green features, and several corporations are erecting green buildings around the country as well. Duracell has one in Bethel, Connecticut. Under the guidance of green architect William McDonough, Herman Miller's SQA subsidiary recently constructed an eco-building in Holland, Michigan. McDonough will also be involved in a new green headquarters Monsanto is planning for St. Louis, Missouri. All these structures are owner-occupied.