For Immediate Release

Two Kohl’s Projects Earn LEED Certification

LONG BEACH, Calif. (Sept. 14, 2009) ― Kohl’s Department Stores, whose new store prototype is certified by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED©) program, recently announced the official LEED Certification of multiple stores. As part of Perkowitz+Ruth Architects’ involvement, the firm participated in the design and construction for two of the 63 total Kohl's locations. 

The Menifee, Calif., location was awarded LEED Certification for Retail New Construction, while the Santa Clarita, Calif., store earned LEED Silver Certification.  

“Kohl’s LEED accomplishments demonstrate tremendous green building leadership,” said Rick Fedrizzi, president, CEO and founding chair, U.S. Green Building Council via a Kohl's press release. “The urgency of USGBC’s mission has challenged the industry to move faster and reach further than ever before, and Kohl’s serves as a prime example of just how much we can accomplish.” 

Characteristics of Kohl’s LEED new store prototype and stores constructed according to it include on-site recycling, water-efficient landscaping, regionally sourced building materials and construction activity pollution prevention. These environmentally responsible characteristics play a key role in helping Kohl’s reduce waste, reduce emissions and conserve resources. 

P+R Architects was previously involved with the development and management of Kohl’s master prototype documents used nationally by regional site adapt architects. The firm completed approximately 100 projects ranging from 68,000 to 98,000 square feet, including multiple two-story and unique takeover locations. 

In addition to the LEED rating, these Kohls’ locations also earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) ENERGY STAR label, a nationally recognized symbol for superior energy efficiency and environmental protection.