I am part of a new construction supermarket project that intends to seek certification under the LEED NC for Retail rating system. Under the Retail rating system, the ‘Controllability of Systems’ credits is combined into a single credit which addresses both lighting and thermal comfort, and the criteria for spaces to be included also differ from LEED NC 2009 requirements. The Retail requirements are to provide individual lighting controls for 90% (minimum) and individual thermal controls for 50% (minimum) of retail employees in office and administrative spaces.

The Retail Supplement to the GBD&C Reference Guide lists the following examples of office and administrative spaces for retail projects: private offices, open-plan workstations, bank teller stations, reception stations, and ticket booths. I am working through determining which parts of a supermarket should be considered ‘office and administrative spaces’. Below is a list of spaces that I believe should be included and excluded. As the rating system is new and relatively untested, I am wondering about others’ experiences or thoughts regarding categorization of spaces for this credit. Any input would be appreciated.

Included: Security Office (private office w/ 1 desk); Computer Office (private office w/ 1 desk); Manager’s Office (private office w/ 2 desks); Cash Office (private office w/ no desks); Customer Service Desk (counter open to sales area, 1-2 workers typically staff, no seated desks)

Excluded: Main Sales Floor, Pharmacy; Café; Deli, Bakery, Produce/Salad, Seafood Prep/Sales Areas; Checkout Area; Receiving Area; Stocking (Back Room) Area; Restrooms; Break Room; Walk-in Coolers and Freezers; Wash Room; Mop Closet