Sustainable buildings ultimately mean preserving resources for future generations. The design of energy-efficient buildings with sustainable materials now lets us reap benefits for many years to come.

As innovators in energy-efficient technology, ASHRAE felt our Headquarters should serve as a showcase of sustainability. The resulting design truly reflects that sentiment as well as how ASHRAE standards and guidelines put into practice result in a high-performing building.

ASHRAE had four main goals for the renewal: to provide a healthy and productive workplace and meeting space for employees and members; to demonstrate a commitment to sustainability; to building a learning center to increase resource for on-site educational opportunities and meetings; and to create a “living lab.” As part of the living lab concept, the building will be heavily monitored and metered to capture building performance data, much of which will be accessible to members online here at ASHRAE.org.

Of course, none of this would have been possible without the hard work and commitment from many volunteers and staff involved in the renewal for the last three years. More importantly, generous donations by companies and firms have ensured that not only our building will be here for a long time to come, but that ASHRAE can continue to provide the sustainable building technology guidance that we are known for.

Our members, staff and donors should be proud of their commitment to supporting green building practices and the technology behind them. Because of their contributions, ASHRAE Headquarters will truly be a sustainable showcase for the building industry as well as a resource for many years to come.

Thank you.

Presidential Member/Headquarters Renovation Committee Chair