New York Building Takes ‘Green’ Approach
The Durst Organization operates the building and rents the space. According to the Durst Organization, the green design elements make the building an appealing place to rent as well as a financially sound investment. As an example, they cite the energy efficiency of the building shell. Through the use of low-e glazing, the admission of daylight for task lighting is optimized, while the passage of heat is significantly reduced; thus building cooing costs are lower and comfort levels are higher.
Another major step in reducing electrical usage was the selection of gas-fired absorption chillers as the primary building cooling units. The design called for the chillers to be located in a large, high-bay mechanical room neat the top of the building. The location high in the building reduced the amount of otherwise rentable space needed for exhaust piping and puts the chillers in proximity to the rooftop cooling tower, thus reducing piping and pumping costs.