Office Interiors Limited recently completed the commercial interior of a new 54,000 square-foot "Green Building" for Newmarket International at Pease Tradeport, Portsmouth.

The building is owned by Two International Group and Newmarket International is the major tenant. Mary Connors, senior designer and LEED AP* with Office Interiors Ltd, worked closely with Newmarket International's employee team and the developer in planning the space to optimize the exterior views and to use natural light as a resource. Energy efficient fixtures and renewable, sustainable products and materials were specified. Bamboo cabinets, sunflower husk countertops, recycled content carpet and fabrics, recycled glass tiles, low VOC paints, and natural linoleum flooring are some of the sustainable materials used throughout the interiors.

The open concept workstation and office design allow all occupants a view to the outside and natural light pours into the space. The overhead lighting switches off when the photocells detect enough daylight to illuminate the open space. Occupancy sensors in the private offices and conference rooms assure that overhead lighting is turned off automatically when the rooms are not occupied.

Newmarket International is expecting to achieve LEED Gold certification for Commercial Interiors.

* LEED Professional Accreditation distinguishes building professionals with the knowledge and skills to successfully steward the LEED Certification process. LEED Accredited Professionals (LEED APs) have demonstrated a thorough understanding of green building practices and principles by passing an accreditation exam and representing knowledge of the LEED Green Building Rating System. www.usgbc.org