obsBazzani: Helmus Building Made Green History in Grand Rapids

Before earning its reputation as a green building pioneer, Bazzani best known for its restoration of historical buildings. Today known for its mission to design and build sustainable communities by rehabilitating urban environments, the Helmus Building was one of its most notable renovations, and an important green building in the region. It is located in the Lower Grand River watershed, with direct drainage to the river.

Home to the Bazzani office and other commercial and residential spaces, the 9,480-square-foot building was the first LEED-certified structure in Grand Rapids and among the first properties with a live green roof.

Located on Wealthy Street, the Helmus Building was built in 1918 and was originally used as a warehouse for dry storage. Vacant and in desperate need of repairs, Bazzani purchased the building with the goal of “demonstrate[ing] the economic, social and environmental value of sustainable design” to the community (Urban Catalyst Associates, 2005). It is certified LEED Silver, reducing utility costs by approximately 40% while increasing indoor air quality. The 2,511-square-foot vegetated green roof features patio access for tenants; the sedums planted in the roof require little water and maintenance. It reduces stormwater runoff from the building, helps release moisture, insulate the building, and prolongs the life of the roof.

The 2,511 square-foot vegetated roof requires little water or maintenance and helps reduce stormwater runoff, insulate the building, and prolong the life of the roof.

In 2012, parking lot adjustments presented an opportunity to install leaching basins underneath the parking garage that now captures and infiltrates approximately 90% of the remaining stormwater runoff.  The use of green stormwater infrastructure provides an additional benefit to neighbors by reducing urban street flooding.  Together with the other green building features, it has encouraged further sustainable development through leadership in the community, setting an example that has helped inspire a neighborhood-scale restoration effort.

Among several recognitions, the Helmus Building received the 2003 “Outstanding Historic Preservation Project Award” from the Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Commission.

Stormwater Currency is a collaboration between American Rivers, Corona, and WEF, with support from a private foundation. We are focused on building market-based and other incentive programs that link people, businesses, and local government to fund, build and maintain green stormwater infrastructure. Our goal is to create sustainable funding programs that increase private sector participation while providing multiple benefits to the public and the environment.

We don’t just design and build green, we live it. Since 1983, our founder Guy Bazzani, has earned the reputation of pioneer and visionary of high-performance green design and construction within diverse, urban environments. Today, guided by the Triple Bottom Line philosophy, the Bazzani team continues to design and build award-winning developments, recognized for their efficient performance and sustainability. We share your passion and belief that green is the way to build.