L.L. Bean goes L.L. Green

For over 90 years, Outdoor Lifestyle retailer L.L. Bean has offered apparel and accessories marketed toward those with an appreciation for nature. In an effort to maintain their relationship with their eco-savvy clientele, they have opted to transform their retail spaces into educational environments by sharing their initiatives in creating a sustainable atmosphere in addition to their green business structure. The first store to undergo this transformation was their Mansfield, Massachusetts location with a design by Bergmyer Associates of Boston. This 30,000 square-foot space is part of USGBC’s LEED for Retail-CI pilot program, which today is still going through many revisions because of the unique needs of retail spaces. A rising concern with renovations, regardless of whether or not sustainable materials are being utilized, is the amount of waste produced by demolition of old interiors. L.L. Bean saw to it that as much of their renovation bi-products were recycled as possible. The end result: only about 25% of their debris ended up in landfills. Their commitment to preserve the outdoors inspired them to take advantage of using reclaimed wood for fixtures and wall panels to maintain a natural feel throughout the store.

From the ceiling to the floor, this space contains technologically advanced and sustainable elements. Light sensitive fixtures work with motion and daylight so that the energy is only utilized when an area is occupied. Additionally, flooring is made of recycled content and rubber. Low VOC adhesives were used throughout the space. Though L.L. Bean has 6 registered LEED retail stores, this is their first to earn a Silver award.