Are Today’s Empty Big-Box Stores Tomorrow’s Green Offices?

We think so.

Say your company is growing – needs to hire – and requires larger quarters. Would you A) punch a hole in the ground where no building existed before to build a new structure or B) repurpose an existing structure expressly for your company’s needs?

For any company or organization committed to showcasing its greenness the answer is surely B.

Gloomy economic forecasts abound that, in 2009, some 60,000 retail locations may be vacated; that’s a lot of Linens ‘n Things, Circuit City, and KB Toy storefronts.

In recessions past, empty storefronts might have blighted once vibrant commercial districts.

But now, with the advent of LEED building and architecture, an empty retail or big-box store may proove an ideal green space for your company or organization.

You may ask, how could a dark, cavernous big box store become an inviting place for your head count to work, and perhaps live, as well?

That’s where LEED-certified architects and builders come in. An empty former retail location of 50,000 square feet or 1 million square feet may be easily transformed into an aesthetically-pleasing place to live, work, shop, and dine.

State of the art windows around the perimeter and sky-lights may be added to provide natural light, center courtyards may create year-round places to gather. Rooftops can include space for solar panels to supply heat, hot water, and electricity, and/or green spaces for seasonal enjoyment (such as rooftop restaurants).

Suburban retail destinations and indoor malls that suffered from architectural sameness and mediocrity are now becoming tomorrow’s great places to live and work.

Before you settle on plans to move your team to larger quarters, look around town to the freshly empty storefronts. And seek out LEED specialists for help in seeing the possibilities.

What a great way for your company or organization to demonstrate greenness, and attract passionate green business executives, by repurposing empty retail spaces!

TO ALL OF OUR READERS: Here’s wishing you a healthy, happy, and green holiday season, and a prosperous New Year!

Happy Holidays!