Regularly occupied space

I always consider an entire open office area as regularly occupied because with today's flexible furnishings it is very possible that the workstation arrangement could change. I've never had a problem with reviewers documenting it this way and it typically helps credit compliance.

In an open office plan, do you take into account the design of the systems furniture being used? I'm confused by the summary provided by LEED user that states in one breathe... "This credit is easy to achieve if you also plan to design for open space planning, placing occupied spaces near exterior windows with large glazing areas, and design spaces to use furniture that does not block views from a seated position, such as low or transparent partitions between workstations."

But then appears to say the addendum says that systems furniture can be excluded. “According to a 5/9/2011 addendum, movable furniture and movable partitions are not included in the scope of this credit calculation. Movable furniture and partitions are those that can be moved to provide access to the view by the user without the need for tools or assistance from special trades and facilities management.”

Any clarification you can offer would be appreciated.

Yes you should take into consideration how the furniture layout will be in an open office plan. Nothing worse then providing a space with great views and daylight to then have it ruined by a land of cubicles and other furniture items. This is just good practice.

Now in regards to documenting the credit, which is completely different then good practice, the cubicles do not have to be included in the line of sight drawings. Only partitions that are fastened to the walls, ceiling or floors, hence the term movable, are to be considered in the line of sight calculations.

Think of it this way, your project is LEED certified at some level, the owner proudly displays and promotes all the credits earned, one being the views credit. But to everyone dismay when they walk into the open office spaces, you can only see cubicles and no one really has a view.

Personally I wish they would have kept this requirement in the credit, makes people think about good practice.