Etsy HQ by Gensler

The Etsy HQ in Brooklyn, New York is one of the largest Living Building Challenge (LBC) Petal certified buildings in New York. The architects, gensler, set out to create a new standard for sustainable design and construction in a renovation project by interweaving sustainability attributes throughout the vibrant and craft-filled workspace.

The 200,000 sq foot space includes a wellness suite featuring a parent’s room, yoga studio, quiet room, garden library and gender neutral bathroom plus their is a communal rooftop terrace.

Sustainability specs:
– 100% renewable energy usage which utilises the rooftop solar panels
– Bike storage to encourage active commuting to work
– Vetting more than 1,500 materials to ensure all materials complied with the – – Living Building Challenge Red List, had low embodied carbon footprint and were sourced responsibly
– Reclaimed materials were used extensively
– Over 90% of the construction waste was diverted from landfill
– Extensive use of indoor plants and living green walls to provide a healthy interior environment and to provide a visual connection to nature
– Rainwater storage system with direct piping to feed the living walls
– Water efficient fixtures
– VOC-free paints
– LED lighting installed throughout, which uses up to 30% less energy then flourescent bulbs
– Local makers fabricated 50% of the furnishings
– Local makers, manufacturers and artists were used wherever possible
– Employees are encouraged to recycled and compost their rubbish

LBC Certification is administered by the International Living Future Institute (ILFI) and serves as one of the world’s most rigorous sustainability standards for buildings. The three-year journey began with a broad vision as partner to the Etsy community, which is realized through four key design concepts: celebrating the art of making; telling the Etsy story through a narrative journey; embracing nature; and capitalizing on sustainable, authentic and locally sourced materials. Faithfully carried out in every detail, these concepts resulted in a space in which Etsy can truly live its mission.