Genzyme Center – A Global Icon of Sustainable Architecture
In the world of green commercial real estate, few buildings command as much attention as the Genzyme Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Designed by Behnisch, Behnisch & Partner, this cutting-edge corporate headquarters has become an international model for sustainable architecture—combining innovative design, environmental responsibility, and workplace wellness.
Prime Location & Strategic Advantage
Located in Cambridge’s Kendall Square, one of the most innovation-driven neighborhoods in the United States, Genzyme Center benefits from:
- Proximity to Boston’s financial district
- Easy access to public transport, major highways, and Logan International Airport
- A vibrant business ecosystem with biotech firms, research centers, and universities
This prime location makes it not just an architectural masterpiece, but also a strategic asset for global business operations.
Architectural Brilliance & Design Philosophy
Genzyme Center is more than an office building—it is a living, breathing workspace designed to enhance human health and productivity. Key design features include:
- Full-height glass curtain walls for maximum daylight penetration
- Atrium spaces with reflective light shelves that distribute natural light deep into the building
- Open-plan office layouts to promote collaboration and flexibility
- High-quality materials chosen for durability and environmental impact
Sustainable Sites
• Built in a high-density urban area
• Built on an industrial brownfield, once the site of a coal gasification plant, which was remediated for the project
• Located within ½ mile from the Red Line
• Garage features a recharging station for electric vehicles
• Indoor bike storage and locker/shower facilities
• 40 preferred carpool spaces
• Space surrounding building was restored with native or adaptive vegetation
• Open space at the site exceeds the city requirements by 50%
• Vegetative “living” roof and rainwater collection system reduces storm water runoff by 25%
• Filters reduce pollution level of storm water runoff
• All parking located below ground, so as to reduce urban heat island effect
• Portions of roof that are not equipped with “living” roof utilize Energy Star-rated reflective surfaces
• Subsidized public transit passes for employees
Sustainability & Green Building Credentials
As one of the first LEED Platinum-certified corporate headquarters, Genzyme Center integrates a wide range of environmental technologies, including:
- Rainwater harvesting systems for irrigation and cooling
- Energy-efficient HVAC systems with heat recovery
- Photovoltaic panels for renewable energy generation
- Low-emission materials for superior indoor air quality
These initiatives not only reduce operational costs but also position the building as a pioneer in corporate ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) compliance.
Water Efficiency
• Highly efficient irrigation system equipped with soil moisture sensors
• Low-flow fixtures installed throughout the building, including waterless urinals and dual-flush toilets
• Expected to use at least 32% less water than conventional buildings
Energy & Atmosphere
• Energy costs expected to be 38% less than those of a standard new building
• 100% of all power for the building comes from renewable sources. A small percentage of this power is supplied by solar panels on the roof. The rest is supplied by renewable energy certificates purchased through Constellation Energy, the building’s energy supplier.
• No CFCs or HCFCs are used in the building. Energy for all heating and cooling needs is provided by a unique steam absorption chiller that utilizes steam from a nearby power plant.
Materials & Resources
• Over 90% of all construction waste was diverted from landfill for reuse
• Over 75% of all building materials contain recycled content
• Over 50% of all building materials were assembled with 500 miles of the building site
• Over 20% of all building materials were harvested from within 500 miles of the site
• More than half of all wood materials used were Forest Stewardship Council certified to come from sustainably-managed forests
Perimeter Blinds
“U” shaped perimeter blinds collect light and reflect it onto metallic ceiling panels to reduce glare and increase the depth of light penetration. These computer-controlled blinds track the sun
and catch and diffuse light throughout the day. The upper section of the blind redirects light onto the ceiling panels while the lower section is made of perforated vanes that minimize glare. The
blinds automatically tilt according to the sun’s position and are programmed to close at night to reduce light pollution and help maintain the building’s temperature. The management system
uses a weather station on the roof to compile data that is used with an annual shading diagram that takes into account many factors, including nearby buildings and the sun’s position, to control
the blinds on each floor and section of the building. Occupants can override the system for thirty minute increments if they desire a different level of light. The blinds can maximize heat gain in the winter and minimize it in the summer by directing the sun’s heat in or out of the building.
Heliostats
The amount of daylight is further increased by seven movable heliostats (mirrors) on the roof that track the sun and direct it into the building via through prismatic, computer controlled louvers on the atrium skylight made from milled acrylic that mechanically adjust to diffuse light and reduce glare. This light is reflected off of various surfaces throughout the atrium. The skylight louvers can also be used to block light and heat when the sun is too strong. Weather
sensors adjust the heliostats according to low light levels, the sun’s position, and high winds.The mirrors on the roof automatically move in order to avoid being damaged by high winds.
Prisms
The distribution of daylight is further enhanced by 768 prismatic plates arranged as mobiles that reflect light into the building, while also functioning as art. The milled acrylic prisms cause light and rainbows to bounce around the building, mimicking the movement of nature inside the building and allowing for the surroundings to feel more dynamic. During the daytime the prisms reflect sunlight, which prevents heat from being absorbed; they also diffuse light and eliminate glare from the halogen lights that are turned on at night. Light directed through the skylight is reflected off a prism chandelier and a light wall.
Light wall
High gloss, reflection coated interior vertical blinds were installed on one side of the atrium to form a “light wall” that maximizes daylight distribution. The light wall is computer controlled to distribute light according to weather conditions. The wall is composed of twenty-two polished aluminum panels and each panel is composed of vertical blades. The panels are perforated to allow light to pass through, in addition to distributing light that is reflected off their surface. The light wall has six preset time controlled configurations that are engaged throughout the day. Additional reflective panels on the inner surface of the atrium walls further enhance light reflection. These panels were partially funded by a grant from the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MTC).
Lighting Efficiency
Heating and Cooling
Workplace Wellness & Employee Productivity
Modern businesses know that employee well-being is directly linked to productivity. Genzyme Center delivers:
- Ample daylight and outside views from almost every workstation
- Green rooftop gardens for relaxation and biodiversity
- Indoor air quality that exceeds standard regulations
- Ergonomic furniture and adaptable workstations
Indoor Environmental Quality
• Carbon Dioxide monitors installed throughout the building, which allow adjustments in airflow to reduce any CO2 levels in the building
• HVAC systems and controls are designed to achieve an air quality standard above government requirements
• All paints, sealants, carpets, and composite woods meet standards for volatile organic carbon emissions
• All chemical storage in the building is isolated and vented.
• Operable windows and lighting controls give employees individual control over their environment
• 75% of all workspaces have sufficient natural light to work without artificial lighting under normal conditions
• 100% of all regularly occupied spaces have views to the outdoors
Investment & Market Value
Sustainable buildings are increasingly seen as high-value real estate investments. Genzyme Center exemplifies:
- Long-term operational savings from energy and water efficiency
- Higher tenant retention rates due to superior working conditions
- Enhanced corporate image, attracting global partnerships
Conclusion
The Genzyme Center stands as proof that sustainable architecture and corporate profitability can go hand in hand. For businesses seeking premium, eco-conscious office space or investors looking for future-ready commercial real estate, this landmark is a shining example of how innovation in building design can deliver lasting financial and environmental returns.
The Bottom Line
• Total Building Cost: $140 Million ($400/square foot) all inclusive (remediation of soil, furniture, etc
• Uses 32% less water than a comparable building
• Electricity costs are 38% less than a comparable building
• Lighting requires 45% less electricity than a conventional building
• Total energy use is 25% below the new state energy code requirements.
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