Koenig Equipment’s new Admin/Learning Center just received Silver Certification from the United States Green Building Council under the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) criteria.

Koenig’s facility, completed by Ferguson Construction Company in late 2007, is the first LEED certified building in Shelby County. For new construction, the Koenig building is the 32nd (at this time) in the entire state of Ohio for all levels of LEED certification.

The new building, located at 15213 State Route 274, Botkins, OH, is on the former Ed Long farmstead, and required minimal land being taken out of production. Koenig Equipment has been selling farm and lawn equipment since 1904 with stores in Western Ohio and Eastern Indiana.

Company President Ray Koenig, a grandson of the founder of the century old business, said, “We needed a center that could serve our 11 dealership locations and from its inception have a minimal impact on the environment and landscape. The building derives from Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie School style and is constructed to blend seamlessly with the landscape.”

The center is designed, built and operated to minimize its carbon footprint. Seven fully-grown trees were saved on the site and six more substantial oaks and maples were transplanted. In keeping with the Midwestern prairie setting, three acres of native grasses (switchgrass) were planted.

Design and build “green” features include: state-of-the-art geothermal heating/cooling system, reflective metal roof panels, passive solar window and eave design, R38 ceiling insulation, tinted thermal glass doors and windows, and use of recycled/renewable materials.

The interior has low-flow plumbing fixtures; energy-efficient automatic lighting controls, generous natural light, and low VOC paints, sealants and carpeting. Spaces are open and accessible and furnishings are simple, clean and practical. The interior wood doors, exposed beams, trim and picture frames are all stained to the rich color of our most productive soils.

Koenig’s focus on the environment by conserving natural resources and building green is an example of their leadership in the industry and a commitment to their customers and the environment.  “Koenig Equipment plans to continue to provide new services and innovative programs for the communities we serve for generations to come,” said President Ray Koenig.

Ferguson Construction Company specializes in design and build, general contracting and construction management and is proud to have designed and built the first LEED certified building in Shelby County for Koenig Equipment. Ferguson has LEED accredited professionals on staff who can assist with all phases of green buildings. Ferguson Construction was established in 1920 and has offices in Sidney, Dayton, and Columbus, OH; as well as Columbus, Indiana.