Edited: Jennifer Brenner
Source: Beacon Capital Partners
President Nicolas Sarkozy saw a stunning example of state-of-the-art environmental technology on June 30 when he toured the newest rising star on the Paris skyline: The 50-story FIRST building.
Upon completion in 2011, FIRST will be the tallest office tower ever built in France – second only in height to the Eiffel Tower.
But it is not only the size of this elegant structure that caught the President’s attention: It is its cutting-edge commitment to the most advanced environmental standards.
FIRST is the largest HQE certified office tower in France. Its use of sustainable materials to reduce future energy needs and its energy-saving construction techniques are unprecedented for a project of this scope.
The slender, helical-shaped tower which spirals upwards like a richly-sculptured silhouette, is rising on the site of the former AXA Tower in the exclusive La Defense district, one of Europe’s prime business centers and home to dozens of multi-national corporations.
The building, where approximately 5,700 people will work, is being co-developed by affiliates of AXA France Assurance and by Beacon Capital Partners of Boston, Ma. who will assume ownership upon its completion.
Upon completion FIRST will:
Employ innovative energy saving designs that allow for more occupants and much less artificial light as well as “Double Skin” exterior design that dramatically reduces cooling and heating requirements.
During the ongoing construction process the carbon footprint will be reduced by about 50% with the renovation of FIRST rather than a complete demolition of the former building.
Fred Seigel, President and Chief Operating Officer of Beacon Capital Partners, said: “Environmental sustainability is a critical component of Beacon’s strategy. The lessons we have learned from the development of FIRST have broad application across our portfolio. We are proud to have invested in this magnificent building.”
FIRST offers proof of the exciting future of construction in the era of environmental awareness.
