Genzyme Center, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA

The chain of biotechnology companies around the world, Genzyme Corporation, has over 10.000 employees in 80 countries. The decision to build the company’s headquarters in Massachusetts was made in 2000. Intended for 900 employees, the new 12-story office building has gross floor area of 32,000 square meters (or 344,000 square feet). It was built by the design of Behnisch and Partner and is considered to be an embodiment of the company’s vision and principles concerning sustainability and environmental protection. Construction works began in June 2001 and were completed in November 2003. Low-flow fixtures, water sensors and waterless urinals help to reduce water consumption by 32%. Besides, the green roof of the building harvests and filters storm water. The great atrium provides the building’s employees with comfortable and healthy working space and fresh air. The atrium itself is made of a light walls and a number of reflective panels. Natural daylight easily penetrates into the glazed building through operable windows, over 700 prismatic plates and specially designed movable heliostats or mirrors which maximize, reflect and diffuse sunlight through the whole building. The quality of air is constantly monitored. There are special storages for chemicals armed with special ventilation system, that’s why harmful fumes are separated from the air of the building. The center purchases needed electricity from renewable sources. Located near the Charles River, the Genzyme corporate headquarters is the largest commercial building in the USA which has earned LEED Platinum certification.

By Astghik Atabekyan, www.building.am

Photos: www.behnisch.com