(Salem, Oregon) – Liberty Ventures, LLC and CB|Two Architects + Construction announced today that the WaterPlace building has been awarded LEED® Platinum as established by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI). LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the nation’s preeminent program for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings.

WaterPlace is one of only two privately financed commercial developments to have received LEED Platinum in Salem. It is a six level, 42,000 square foot commercial office and retail development across from city hall.

“WaterPlace’s LEED certification demonstrates tremendous green building leadership,” said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO & Founding Chair, U.S. Green Building Council. “The urgency of USGBC’s mission has challenged the industry to move faster and reach further than ever before, and WaterPlace serves as a prime example of just how much we can accomplish.”
LEED Platinum certification of WaterPlace is based on a number of green design and construction features that positively impact the project itself and the broader community. These features include a stream riparian restoration, reclaimed wood, natural light, indoor air quality, efficient light and water fixtures, and a bioswale that is used to filter storm water before returning to Pringle Creek. Additionally, WaterPlace used 23% recycled materials and its energy performance is 24% better than a standard building.
“This project was an opportunity to create an innovative solution on a unique redevelopment site that features sustainable, earth-friendly and energy-efficient components,” said Garth Brandaw, Senior Principal at CB|Two Architects + Construction. “Sustainability has long been a focus for our company and we’re proud to have received this certification. This focus was also a successful business strategy since the property is now fully leased.”
With roughly 200 LEED certified buildings in the state of Oregon, WaterPlace is one of nearly 15 privately financed commercial developments to have received Platinum certification. While CB|Two Architects has worked on several LEED projects, WaterPlace is the first to have received such a prestigious certification as LEED Platinum. Other CB|Two LEED projects include Salem Alliance Broadway Commons (seeking Silver certification), The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center (seeking Silver certification), and MVP Health Services (seeking Certified).