Delta Dental Michigan's corporate headquarters wins LEED Gold
The corporate headquarters of Delta Dental in Michigan, US has received LEED Gold from the US Green Building Council following a $91 million renovation and expansion project.
The project commenced in 2008 and was over in August 2011. It has led to creation of a new office building spanning 90,000 square feet, and a new 22,500 square feet data center at the eastern end of the facility. Work also involved revamp of the facility's original headquarters and its expansion from 160,000 to 188,000 square feet.
The property now imbibes various eco-friendly elements such as large windows. The windows allow maximum penetration of natural light, reaping energy cost cuts. The roof of the building incorporates bioswales and plant material to offer natural thermal insulation and helps cut down the amount of storm water run off.
The grounds of the facility now feature native ground covers, prairie grasses, wildflowers and trees. The property also comprises an increased pond surface area which has a storm water storage capacity of almost 160,000 cubic feet. Other sustainable features include use of reclaimed construction materials, and development of a native wildlife habitat.
