EDITH

EDITH is a shining example of what can be achieved through a commitment to sustainability and good design. As the first LEED Gold certified existing mixed-use building in Africa, it sets a new standard for green buildings on the continent and serves as a model for future developments. Comprising of a ground + 2 building, EDITH offers a combination of grade A offices and retail spaces, with a gross floor area of 5,884 m2. Located in the capital city of Mauritius, the building boasts excellent public transport connections, including a metro system and urban and interurban buses, allowing it to achieve the maximum score in the transportation category in the LEED certification process. Developed by Lavastone Properties, with Prodesign Engineering Consultant as the sustainability consultant, EDITH is a testament to the power of good design, operations, and maintenance practices.
Historical Background: 
EDITH's rich history dates back over a century and Lavastone Properties, the developer of the building, recognized the importance of preserving its historical significance, while also renovating and securing the property in line with current laws and regulations. One of the main drivers of the project was the re-use and refurbishment of centenary stone walls (25,000 m2), which not only retained the building's historical significance but also benefited from the better thermal insulating properties of the stone walls compared to normal blockwall construction.
Sustainable Strategies: 
EDITH's commitment to sustainability is exemplified by its LEED Gold certification and the building's implementation of various sustainable strategies such as:
•    Water conservation through the use of efficient fixtures such as dual flush toilets, faucets with cartridge saving systems, and water-efficient urinals.
•    Solid waste diversion through composting and recycling.
•    Impressive energy score achieved through the use of energy-efficient measures such as LED lights, presence detectors, inverter-fitted AC units, and fans and pumps equipped with variable speed drives.
•    Adequate daylight provided in each regularly occupied space to connect the building occupants with the outdoors, reinforce circadian rhythms, and reduce the use of electrical lighting.
•    Indoor air quality testing to ensure healthy levels and the well-being and comfort of the tenants through the use of a robust ventilation system.
•    Robust Operation and Maintenance policies such as purchasing, green cleaning, renovations, and waste policies implemented, tracked and upgraded to ensure the building's ongoing sustainability and performance.
•    Roof insulation to achieve low U-values.
•    Cool waterproofing material with high SRI value.

Impact: 
EDITH’s commitment to sustainability has had a significant impact on the environment, society, and economy. The building's energy and water-efficient systems have led to a significant reduction in energy and water usage, resulting in an estimated energy and GHG emissions that are both 3.7% better than the median property. The focus on indoor air quality has improved the occupants' well-being and comfort, while the building's sustainability features have had a positive economic impact on the community, reducing operation and maintenance costs while also attracting environmentally conscious tenants. Furthermore, EDITH’s commitment to preserving its historical significance serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Overall, EDITH is a prime example of how a commitment to sustainability and good design can result in a building that not only benefits the environment and community, but also serves as a model for future developments. The partnership between Lavastone Properties and Prodesign Engineering Consultant helped to achieve this goal, and the building's LEED Gold certification is a testament to their success.