L.L. Bean Mansfield, MA

Customers of the L.L. Bean’s Mansfield location have responded positively to the new store, pointing out that the green features enhance the space and the merchandise.

When L.L. Bean went to the drawing board to design its new Mansfield, MA retail location, the outdoor equipment company kept its core customer base in mind. Recognizing that their customers have a strong affinity for nature and the outdoors, L.L. Bean decided its retail store should embody those values, and challenged its architects to design a store that could demonstrate to its customers what a sustainably designed retail environment should be. The LEED for Retail: Commercial Interiors rating system was the ideal fit.

As a store that specializes in outdoor equipment, L.L. Bean realized the value in creating a retail space that brought the outside in. Designers were able to achieve this effect by incorporating natural daylighting into the space, which reduced reliance on electricity. A state-of-the-art lighting control system, occupancy sensors, an energy use management system and mechanical system commissioning contributed to reducing the store’s energy consumption by 40% over comparable facilities. By using high-efficiency metal halide and fluorescent lights, the store employs the latest cost saving technology without sacrificing well-lit merchandise.

L.L. Bean was able to bring Mechanical Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) engineers into the fold early on during the schematic design, informing the project’s specifications. Early planning enabled the project to specify waterless urinals, low-flow toilets and sinks, reducing water use by 29%.

Construction material selection was a primary issue in the design of the space, and the project team wanted to use materials that wouldn’t take from the earth’s natural resources. The project used carpet and rubber flooring which contained recycled content, FSC-certified hardwoods and reclaimed barn boards for finish materials. While upfront cost was higher for these special materials, the significant energy and water use reductions the store has experienced since opening its doors have more than compensated for the added first costs. L.L. Bean also aimed for 75% construction waste diversion from landfills, and by meticulously sorting waste, the project was able to divert 94% of its waste.

Customers of the L.L. Bean’s Mansfield location have responded positively to the new store, pointing out that the green features enhance the space and the merchandise. Customers enjoy knowing the origins of the reclaimed materials, and have commented that the natural lighting allows them to see the colors of the merchandise better than artificial lighting.

About L.L. Bean

L.L.Bean, Inc. has been a trusted source for quality apparel, reliable outdoor equipment and expert advice for more than 95 years. Founded in 1912 by Leon Leonwood Bean, the company has grown from a one-man operation to a global organization with annual sales of $1.5 billion. L.L. Bean’s company headquarters are in Freeport, Maine, just down the road from their original store.