By Healthcare Facilities Today

The Group Health Puyallup Medical Center in Puyallup, Wash., is the first project in the U.S. to achieve certification under the new Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for Healthcare rating system. 

Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), LEED for Healthcare  “promotes healthful, durable, affordable, and environmentally sound practices in healthcare facility building design and construction.”

The 53,000-square-foot, two-story medical center attained the necessary point level for Gold LEED certification through the collaborative efforts of real estate company CBRE, consultants O’Brien & Co., architecture and design firm CollinsWoerman, GLY Construction and developer The Benaroya Co.

More than 200 materials and products were reviewed and analyzed for their sustainability, quality, performance and maintenance before items were chosen. Local materials, as well as those with recycled content, were the preferred choice for construction. 

Design elements in the building minimize the use of artificial light, optimizing energy performance. And the green roof allows for reduction in storm water discharge, and increases insulation and energy efficiency as well as provides a connection to nature. 

Additionally, trees cleared for the building site were reclaimed for the project and used for site benches, interior finishes and a two-story wall paneling that dominates the central lobby, adding to the character and beauty of the facility.