Wilder Center – LEED Gold Standard
Address: 451 Lexington Pkwy N, Saint Paul, MN
Overview:
The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System is a nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high performance green buildings. LEED promotes a whole-building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in five key areas of human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. By adhering to LEED standards, Wilder Center creates and promotes a healthier work environment for employees and clients, while reducing operating costs through energy efficiency and implementing other practical innovations.
Wilder Center is designed to model how the Amherst H. Wilder Foundation can successfully serve people today and also steward tomorrow’s environment. Wilder Center’s commitment to sustainable design is an extension of a mission to build sustainable families and communities. The Wilder Foundation is one of the first organizations in the country to link a health and human services mission to environmental sustainability, making Wilder Center a truly significant statement that we encourage others to follow.
This LEED Gold Standard was made possible with accredited professionals, general contractor Duke Construction and architectural firm Perkins + Will.
Benefits:
- 45% reduction in energy costs ($50,000 per year)
- 42% reduction in water use ($3,000 per year)
- 200% improvement in recycling ($5,000 per year)
- $60,000 reduction in remodeling costs per year from flexible open office environment
- $2.5 million reduced construction costs by building a smaller building with an open office environment, saving $100,000 per year on operating costs
- Fewer car trips with easier public transportation access and bike friendly facility
- Reduced waste in landfills
