D.C. Office Earns Double Platinum Green Certification

The Washington, D.C. office of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) is the first space in the world to achieve Platinum-level certification for both the WELL Building Standard and LEED.

The 8,500-square-foot space now boasts plaques marking its designation in each rating system, the result of a people-centric design focus. The office serves as a living laboratory for the design community, according to ASID. To that end, it has already yielded pre- and post-occupancy research showing an increase in key performance indicators for workplaces, and Cornell University found that employee satisfaction regarding the office’s environmental quality increased significantly, along with overall job satisfaction, perceived support by the organization and perceived organizational productivity.

Important design elements in the office include:

• Biophilic design strategies that introduce natural elements into the space, helping reduce stress and improve air quality
• Sound masking systems
• Rigorous water quality standards
• Circadian lighting that helps regulate the body’s physiological processes, thus maximizing efficiency
• A wellness room for employees to take mental breaks

Policies and procedures were also crafted to emphasize health and productivity, including providing fresh fruit and vegetables and installing sit-stand desks at workstations.