Scheduled for completion in October 2009, the prestigious Airport Plaza business eco-park at Brussels International Airport excels in environmental sustainability, designed to achieve a 'Very Good' rating under BREEAM.
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An artist's impression of the 35,000-m2 Airport Plaza at Brussels International Airport.
The 35,000-m² development, owned by a fund managed by CB Richard Ellis Investors, comprises five buildings which are interconnected at ground level and range in height from three to nine storys. Airport Plaza aims to be the first building in Belgium delivered certified under the new pan-European BREEAM Offices scheme.
One of the most striking features of the development, which is expected to score well under the ecology section of BREEAM, is the incorporation of an innovative vegetal facade. Planted with specially selected climbing species, the facade is resistant to adverse conditions and ensures high levels of natural daylight. The green facade also blends the development into its natural surroundings an essential feature for a building which is part of the airport complex.
The five buildings also include large glazed areas and terraces to provide optimal comfort for occupants. Other areas that are expected to score well under BREEAM include:
Transport due to its close proximity to amenities and public transport
Energy through the use of energy efficient windows and low energy lighting ( going beyond the EPB 2009 norms)
Water with efficient watering systems for the landscaped areas and use of water-efficient sanitary fittings.
"Achieving the BREEAM Very Good certification has been central to the design of this eco-park. It has set a challenging and world renowned standard to apply to the complex" said Nicolas Lutgé, Director at CB Richard Ellis Investors. "Sustainable development is one of our most important core values. We are committed to obtaining the highest standards for environmental performance which will create value, attract and retain tenants, and of course, create a vibrant, living and comfortable working environment. We want to be more than a landlord. We want to be a service provider. We serve our tenants by helping them in their green approach, via internal and external communication tools on the performance of the building as well as a link with the ISO certifications."
The final certification under BREEAM Europe is expected to be carried out in October 2009 and the results will be made available via BRE Global's BREEAM and Green Book Live websites.
Source: Citigate Dewe Rogerson
