Bulgaria began big with its entry into green building. Tishman International Companies’ mixed-use Sofia Airport Center (SAC), which officially opened its first class-A building in October 2012, is Bulgaria's first LEED commercial development and has been pre-certified LEED Silver. SAC also meets the international standards of BREAM, making it one of the most energy-efficient business complexes in Eastern Europe.
The project, when completed, will consist of 1.8 million sq. ft. new commercial real estate assets. The existing logistics office and warehouse spaceis virtually 100 percent occupied. SAC features state-of-the-art security and safety systems and is already operational. Future plans call for a high-quality, 175-room hotel with recreational, dining and conference facilities and additional new logistics space.
In time for its opening, SAC captured two awards—Best Public Building with Business Functions and Best Green Building—in the 11th national Building of the Year contest, sponsored by the Bulgarian Ministry of Regional Development. This annual contest, which is also supported by professional organizations for architectural and construction industries, showcases trends in project investments, construction and design. The contest awards projects that best represent achievements in different areas, one of which is dedicated to recognizing sustainable and green projects.
SAC incorporates environmentally-friendly materials with state-of-the-art technologies to reduce operating costs as much as 30 percent and provide a comfortable, healthy environment for employees. Sustainable features include an energy-efficient HVAC system, controlled by an intelligent building management system; advanced fiber optics; abundant natural light through open atriums and double-gazed windows; height, 9.35-ft. ceilings and solar shading on building exteriors to reduce heat and solar gain.
Tishman also established an onsite sports facility within SAC’s Logistics Center. The fully equipped Dance and Aerobics Studio, open to all SAC employees and community residents, offers a variety of after-work classes in fitness training and Bulgarian national dances.