MERLIN PROPERTIES - Balmes 236

BALMES 236 is an existing office building located in Barcelona where EUGIN company have been established.

The building is compound by eleven floors above ground for office and medical use (a low level and ten additional floors). Below ground, there are five floors for parking space. The site area is mainly compound by the building footprint.

This project is operated and maintained following USGBC’ sustainability criteria most updated version for Existing Buildings. The project has obtained a GOLD certification with the participation of the owner (Merlin Properties), the building tenants and LEED Consultants.

One of the most distinguished features of the project is the high level of sustainability in terms of alternative transport. Due to the location of the building, a high percentage of occupants uses public transport for trips. Consequently, it makes possible to reach 15 points regarding alternative transport.

Other important aspects related to building sustainability are:

- 88,95% of the building occupants normally choose a sustainability alternative transportation to go to their job.

- 100% of parking lots are placed below ground level reducing heat island effect.

- An irrigation meter has been installed in order to monitor water use.

- Existing efficient water supply fixtures, such as efficient urinals, public lavatory faucets and kitchen faucets allow to obtain a 40,43% potable water savings.

- An ASHRAE Energy Audit Level 2 has been developed in order to optimize facilities efficiency.

- A performance score of 19 points has been achieved considering multitenant energy consumptions. - Lamps purchasing has led into a total mercury content per bulb of 0,00 picograms/lumen-hr).

- The health and comfort of the occupants is addressed by the existing 100% outdoor air Air Handling Units.

- At least 57,04% of regularly occupied floor areas has access to quality views.