LEEDing the Way: LEED Certified Case Studies in Ireland

11 Dec LEEDing the Way: LEED Certified Case Studies in Ireland

LEEDing the Way: LEED-certified Case Studies in Ireland

Inspiration often comes from real-world success stories. In the context of sustainability and green building practices, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification has significantly transformed architectural landscapes across Ireland. In this mini blog, we’ll explore some inspiring LEED-certified projects our teams have undertaken and examine the environmental and economic benefits they offer.

1 Molesworth Street, Dublin – LEED Platinum Certified

Our Dublin office is proud of the LEED Platinum Certified development at 1 Molesworth Street, which stands out as an exceptional retail and commercial mixed-use development block distinguished by its high-quality features and sustainable design. In both the retail and office spaces, the design prioritises flexibility, incorporating bright, expansive floor plates with floor-to-ceiling glazing on all four sides of the building. The 2.8m floor-to-ceiling height and column-free spaces of 42m and 45m set a precedent in the Dublin office market, accommodating diverse layouts for professional, technology, and legal sectors. What sets One Molesworth Street apart is its LEED Platinum Certification, the highest standard for sustainability. the building features a green roof, rainwater harvesting, and LED energy-controlled lighting.

70 St Stephen’s Green, Dublin – LEED Platinum Certified

This award-winning and highly commended project involved the construction of a five-story office building, replacing the 1960s Hainault House. The new structure aligned with the irregular edge of three Georgian houses previously demolished at 69-71 St. Stephen’s Green. The design seamlessly combined contemporary elements with nods to history, replicating the formal features and grid pattern of the original buildings. Accessible through a revolving door, the entrance led to a double-height hall that connected to three lifts serving all floors. On the south elevation, a twin skin aluminium unitised curtain walling system with a PPC finish and automatic blinds was integrated to control glare and heat gain. All glazing systems featured full-height clear glass, offering thermal insulation and solar control to meet high environmental standards. The roof system met LEED Platinum requirements with an intensive green roof on a built-up reinforced bitumen membrane inverted roof covering.

32 Molesworth Street, Dublin – LEED Gold Certified

This award-winning project involved the construction of a new 4-storey office building above a single-storey basement that includes parking and the restoration of a protected Georgian building. The building’s frame, constructed with reinforced concrete, boasts a maximum clear span of 9m, providing spacious and obstruction-free office areas. Situated in a tight brownfield site within a bustling city centre, the project faced unique challenges, particularly during the development of the basement. The project received LEED Gold Accreditation, which contributed to the building’s recognition and brought about significant benefits to the project. These included enhanced sustainability, energy efficiency, and overall environmental performance. Incorporating LEED principles underscored the commitment to creating a high-performing and environmentally responsible structure, aligning with contemporary standards and contributing to the project’s success.

The Economic and Environmental Impact

LEED-certified projects like these demonstrate the tangible benefits of sustainable design in Ireland. Not only do they contribute to a reduced environmental footprint, but they also yield economic advantages. These advantages include lower energy costs, increased property value, improved occupant health and productivity, and an overall positive impact on the community.

Join the Sustainability Movement

These case studies showcase the transformative power of sustainable architecture. At VHA, we’re proud to be part of this movement, offering consultations through our Sustainability Department. If you’re intrigued by the principles of sustainable and environmentally conscious design and want to delve deeper into the world of LEED certification, we invite you to reach out to VHA. Whether you’re a business owner looking to make your workspace more sustainable or a curious individual eager to explore eco-friendly practices, our team is here to guide you.

Feel free to contact us for more information on LEED, its benefits, and how it can be tailored to meet your specific needs. Embrace a greener future with us – your journey towards sustainable practices starts with a simple conversation. Together, we can build a greener future for Ireland, one project at a time. Reach out to our team: grainne@vha.ie