Sustainable Structure

Inside, we feature a look at Novus International Inc.'s new environmentally friendly office, research laboratory and conferencing center at the Missouri Research Park in St. Charles, MO. St. Louis contractor Clayco Inc. partnered with architect Forum Studio Inc. on the new facility, which is aiming for LEED Platinum certification.

Green building practices have gained rapid support in recent years because of skyrocketing energy prices and heightened concerns about global warming. Eco-friendly buildings tend to cost more upfront. But going green saves on operating costs in the long term, usually an average of 30 percent to 50 percent just for energy, according to the U.S. Green Building Council.

Clayco – a sustainable building leader – says it is committed to the green building movement, offering innovative practices for sustainable, high-quality developments. “Nine of 10 proposals we receive from clients ask for some type of sustainable measures,” said Paul Todd Merrill, P.E., LEED, Clayco's director of sustainable construction. “Eight of 10 want LEED certification at a minimum.”