PCA-designed L.L. Bean outlet earns LEED certification; among first recognized under new LEED for Retail Pilot Program

North Conway, NH A 14,400 s/f L.L. Bean retail outlet designed by Prellwitz Chilinski Associates has been LEED Certified by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Part of the Settlers' Crossing retail complex, the $1.6 million project is among the first projects certified under the USGBC's LEED for retail pilot program, which recognizes the unique nature of retail environments within the sustainable building movement.

Located at 1390 White Mountain Highway, Settlers' Crossing is owned by MRM Development LLC and managed by OVP Management, Inc. Design and construction of the The LL Bean Outlet took two years to complete, with the grand opening in September of 2008. According to Jason Cohen, LEED AP, the project architect, "We were able to successfully integrate L.L. Bean's sustainability mandates with the aesthetic, performance, and budget requirements of the building's owner."

The building's energy-efficient plumbing, lighting, heating and cooling systems combine with air-quality monitoring technology to reduce its environmental impact and utility costs while increasing occupant health and comfort. Beyond these performance benefits, the design offers a marketing opportunity for L.L. Bean, as the retailer showcases the store's features through signage and tours.

As a LEED for Retail Pilot project, the building has helped the USGBC evaluate the standards required to develop guidelines for future sustainable retail projects. "We were excited to be part of this pilot," said Cohen. "It was an opportunity to demonstrate how sustainable design can benefit both a retail landlord and tenant. Within budget, the team delivered a resource-efficient, healthy building that will bring long-lasting value."