U•Center Phase 1 achieves WELL Platinum certification

Forte Partners and Pavăl Holding announced the achievement of WELL Core certification at the Platinum level for the first phase of the U•Center project, with a score of 91, the highest in Romania for this type of certification. The extensive certification process was carried out over a period of four years and was coordinated by the ESG Strategic Advisory department of Colliers Romania.

“The quality of the environment inside the buildings where we spend our professional lives is perhaps the most important benefit we can bring to our residents, and in this respect, the U•Center 1 building achieves the highest level of performance,” said Andreea Druga, Managing Director Dedeman Office Division of Pavăl Holding.

WELL Core certification is awarded to buildings that are used more than 75 percent by tenant companies, based on the assessment of ten categories that influence employee health and well-being.

“Ensuring a healthy work environment, especially in today’s still hybrid but increasingly office-based work environment, is high on our list of priorities, and achieving WELL Platinum certification for the first phase of U•Center represents recognition of our concern for the well-being of the tenant companies’ employees”, said Stephen Burke, Construction Director at Forte Partners. “Energy efficiency, the use of natural light in common and work areas, safety, biophilic design, functionality and air quality are central to the office buildings we develop and are reflected throughout our portfolio in this segment.”

Forte Partners intends to obtain similar certifications for the second phase of the U•Center project, currently under construction, with a completion date in Q3 2023.

“U•Center 1 is different from other office buildings by incorporating multiple strategies designed to enhance the health, comfort, enjoyment and well-being of all employees at work. Tested and proven indoor air and water quality, thermal and acoustic comfort, ergonomic furniture, the urban garden and revitalizing spaces are just a few of the features promoted by the WELL Building Standard certification system and incorporated into the building’s innovative design”, says architect Tamara Dogariu, Senior Sustainability Consultant at Colliers International.

Pavăl Holding acquired the first phase of the U•Center office project, leased by companies such as Booking Holdings, Endava, Lensa, Up Romania, BT, Neuroaxis, DCS plus, SWEAT Concept or Stradale in 2022. The office building has also achieved, LEED v4 Platinum certification with a score of 85, the certification process was coordinated by BuildGreen, and WELL Health & Safety.