February 8, 2006—The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) is studying renovation of its headquarters to showcase sustainability, the organization says.
“The proposed renovation of our current headquarters would incorporate ASHRAE technology and demonstrate our strong commitment to sustainability,” Lee Burgett, P.E., ASHRAE president, said.
ASHRAE moved to its current headquarters in Atlanta from New York in 1981. The 31,000-square-foot building houses some 100 employees. Recent inspections indicated that the building, constructed in 1965 and last renovated in 1991, needs substantial repairs.
ASHRAE explored several options, including purchasing a new building or leasing. The Societys Board of Directors agreed to study renovating headquarters into a sustainable building. ASHRAE would work toward the US Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environment Design certification for existing buildings (LEED-EB), with a goal of a gold rating.
The Society also plans to demonstrate specific compliance with ASHRAE standards with respect to energy conservation and indoor air quality. The study is expected to begin by March 2006 with a final decision on renovation due by September 2006.
For more on ASHRAE, visit the Web site.
