Sustainability is a millennial design imperative

The bottom line is that resources are running out. It’s a situation that creates significant opportunities for innovative alternatives in the world of fit-out and design. Design has made it possible for us to create sustainable, healthy environments, and the only way we can achieve this is to focus on the way we live.

The Cœur Défense building in Paris, where Tétris and JLL are located, puts this sentiment into practice. BREEAM In Use certified, the building has achieved ratings of Sustainable Building (excellent) and Sustainable Management (very good). Specific levels of eco construction, eco management, comfort and health performance were key to obtaining the rating and these aspects reinforce the important role of sustainability in attracting tenants and retaining employees. The concept of wellbeing and convenience is evident at the core of the Cœur Défense office complex: users benefit from a fitness centre, a variety of restaurants, services and shops, and a premium conference centre.

A phrase has been coined that describes the “seamless transition between interior and exterior spaces to ensure a greater connection to nature” (Bush & Durie). It is centred around people’s relationship with plants and draws on the abundant benefits of incorporating all things natural – everything from flora and light to materials and layout – in an office fit-out.

The building integrated agriculture (BIA) concept is taking full advantage of this trend in the commercial office space and is being showcased in offices around the world. This innovative practice includes installing rooftop greenhouses and vertical gardens in corporate spaces, with sustainable and social benefits. An inspiring example is the InteriorWorks office in Amsterdam. Located in a new BREEAM building in Amsterdam-Noord, the interior is WELL certified and incorporates an indoor herb garden used for staff meals, as well as a rooftop garden.