For a current project we would like to clarify how LEED defines casework/millwork across multiple credits:
If we would like to pursue MRc6: Design for Flexibility, using the last option "use movable/modular casework for a minimum of 50% of casework and custom millwork"
- How do we define "movable/modular"? Do they need to be movable, modular, or both?
- Can these be affixed to a wall?
- Would "movable/modular" casework be included within the base building credits because it is still casework - for example, as a part of IEQc4, Group 4: Composite Wood, Agrifiber Products?
- OR would "moveable/modular" casework be included within the Furniture and Furnishings credits because it is "freestanding" - for example, as a part of MRc5: Furniture and Medical Furnishings?
james moler, p.e.
mgr systems engineeringturner healthcare
46 thumbs up
March 2, 2012 - 7:48 am
Simon asks a multi-layered question. Each of the credits have a different intent so it is possible for the same component to contribute to achievement in multiple credits. For MR c6 Flexibility, components of a furniture system that includes work surfaces, storage and filing units and partitions that can be rearranged is considered a modular system. If some of those storage and work surface components are on wheels, they are considered moveable. Moveable doesn't have to be on wheels, it just makes it easier! If you can pick it up an move it with a hand truck or dolly, it is moveable. The line between moveable and modular is pretty fuzzy and is more related to interchangeability in a system than size or weight. For MR c5 these same components would be considered eligible because they can contribute to achieving the options. They are not "built-in" and therefore are not included in MR c3 as "base building" components. The moveable/modular components do not contribute to IEQ c4 because they are not "base building" components, they are FF&E.
Susan Walter
HDRLEEDuser Expert
1296 thumbs up
March 2, 2012 - 8:55 am
To add to Jim's great response, I would caution you on using modular wood based cabinets; you would also have to look at how they contribute to MRc7 Certified Wood and IEQc4.4 Low Emitting Materials. The classification of built in versus modular is a key component to the MR credit calculations and your LEED strategy.
In general, we use metal cabinets or cabinets made by the furniture manufacturers for anything that will be moved before a space is remodelled. We use custom cabinets where we do not expect the owner will move them prior to a remodel. To me this is the difference. For example, the modular cabinets in a Staff Lounge may not want to be classified as moveable even though they could be moved. The fact is that they are going to be installed and left there until a remodel happens and then they will be removed but not reused (because they will have been beaten to death). This is true of other places that use modular cabinetry but where it is not moveable.
I think as this program gets rolling that the reviewers will start to make this distinguishment and we will get better clarity.
Simon Sue
SL+A INTERNATIONAL ASIA INC.411 thumbs up
March 4, 2012 - 9:14 pm
James, Susan,
Thank you for your responses. For further clarification:
We are planning to use modular casework from a local vendor (similar to example shown here: http://www.neocase.com/). Our cabinets will all be anchored to a wall (not on wheels), but have been designed in individual cabinet modules for flexibility in future relocation so that the modules are reconfigurable. Per the credit intent "to conserve resources associated with the construction and management of buildings by designing for flexibility and ease of future adaptation...," we are under the impression that the intent is to provide in advance for future renovations. Because these are reconfigurable units of a large casework system that can be moved or reallocated throughout the project space, we are considering them movable.
Based on Jason's response, we would still classify these casework modules as movable, though not on wheels, but it is still slightly unclear as to whether or not these would be considered built-in aka base building components, or FF&E.
We are still finalizing the material selection for the casework construction (metal, MDF, plastic, etc.) and are concerned about whether or not it must comply with IEQc4, Group 4, as well --- which as we understand it, is only applicable if the casework is still considered "base building" elements, rather than FF&E.