The MAP International office and distribution facility, a 54,484 sf building, holds a commanding presence on a 17-acre corner lot. The current site is close to the organization's previous headquarters building, occupied since 1985 when MAP moved their headquarters from Chicago to Brunswick for better access to ports and distribution centers.
MAP International is an internationally recognized non-profit relief and medical-aid organization. Last year alone MAP shipped $380 million in medicine and medical supplies to 135 countries across the world. Due to the philanthropic nature of their organization, having a LEED certified building was of critical importance to the owner. They desired a headquarters that reflects their humanitarian beliefs by incorporating energy efficient design and environmentally friendly materials.
Among the creative sustainable design strategies that designers used towards potential LEED certification are white reflective roofing, low flow plumbing fixtures, 100% recycled gypsum wallboard, occupancy and daylight sensors on light fixtures and native water-efficient landscape plantings. The building is oriented to maximize and control the amount of daylight entering the building as well as to take advantage of lake views. During construction, at least 75% of the construction waste was diverted away from landfills and into recycling centers. The building is made of materials containing not less than 40% net recycled content. This project achieved 41% water use reduction compared to similar facilities – more than twice the minimum required by LEED Water Efficiency standards. In addition, 20% of all construction materials were extracted, processed or manufactured within 500 miles of the construction site – again, double the amount required by LEED standards.
Continuing MAP’s ideal of being a good steward to the environment, the building will be an educational facility open (by appointment) to the public for tours, highlighting aspects of the building and site that are environmentally responsible.