#Japan #Kanazawa #LEED certification #CCI Group #Hirooka Terrace

Hirooka Terrace Achieves LEED Gold Certification

In a significant milestone for sustainable architecture, Hirooka Terrace, a new tenant office building in Ishikawa, Japan, has successfully obtained LEED® BD+C: New Construction v4 Gold certification. This achievement marks the first instance of a green building certification for a tenant office structure within Ishikawa Prefecture. The project was conceived by CCI Group, a prominent regional financial and consulting firm headquartered in Kanazawa, Ishikawa, with construction overseen by Mitsubishi Jisho Sekkei, a well-respected design and consulting architecture firm from Tokyo. Additionally, von Elff supported the certification process to ensure all requirements were met.

Scheduled for completion in the summer of 2025, Hirooka Terrace exemplifies not just eco-friendly construction, but also aligns with CCI Group's broader sustainable growth strategy, aiming to generate value across environmental, health, economic, and social aspects.

Sustainable Design and Functionality

Located conveniently just four minutes on foot from Kanazawa Station, Hirooka Terrace stands adjacent to the Hokkoku Bank headquarters. This strategically placed office building fulfills the essential needs for comfort and sustainability while acting as a hub for innovative collaboration and community interaction. It offers a semi-outdoor terrace that residents can utilize, designed to promote connectivity and the exchange of new ideas.

The building features high-performance exteriors that not only blend well with the surrounding architecture but also effectively reduce air-conditioning loads by shielding indoor spaces from direct sunlight. Furthermore, sustainable materials such as building-integrated photovoltaic glass are utilized to maximize onsite renewable energy production.

Energy Efficiency Features

The LEED certification process recognized several outstanding energy efficiency initiatives within the construction. Notably, the building's design incorporates energy simulation models that proved effective in demonstrating energy management and the utilization of renewable sources. For instance, rooftop solar panels and building-integrated solar glass installed at the parking area optimize energy production, providing both functionality and aesthetic value that emphasizes Hirooka Terrace's commitment to environmental responsibility.

Additionally, high-insulation building skins ensure excellent thermal performance while allowing for expansive views of the cityscape. This combination contributes positively to energy simulation outcomes, creating a work environment conducive to productivity and comfort.

Another innovative aspect is the incorporation of high-efficiency water-cooled heat pump chillers that leverage abundant underground water resources, reflecting a strategic decision to utilize local utilities with minimal environmental impact.

Recognized Sustainable Features

Hirooka Terrace received additional points for its pioneering design focused on beauty, well-being, and biophilic elements, contributing to a harmonious indoor atmosphere. Spaces within the building seamlessly connect indoor and outdoor environments, integrating natural elements like greenery and wood finishes that not only elevate the aesthetic appeal but also promote psychological well-being.

Moreover, the interiors showcase locally sourced furniture crafted from Ishikawa wood and aluminum panels that artistically reflect the surrounding landscapes, creating a uniquely immersive experience for visitors and workers alike.

Facility Overview

• - Name: Hirooka Terrace
• - Location: 2-12-24 Hirooka, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
• - Use: Office Space, Parking, Bicycle Storage
• - Project Owner: Hokkoku Bank Co., Ltd.
• - Design Supervision: Mitsubishi Jisho Sekkei
• - Construction: Shimizu Corporation, Yonezawa Electric Works, Dai-ichi Electric Works, Kakimoto Trading Co., Ltd., Hihyu Denco, Inc.
• - Total Floor Area: 21,446.68 square meters
• - Structure: 13-stories above ground (steel composite)
• - Completion Date: July 2025

Understanding LEED Certification

LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a globally recognized certification system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) to evaluate sustainable building practices. The certification assesses various operational criteria reflecting environmental consideration, making it one of the most widely adopted benchmarks for green buildings worldwide. Hirooka Terrace stands as a beacon of sustainable architecture and innovation, setting a precedent for future developments in the region and beyond.