HOUSTON—When Capitol Tower rises on the city skyline in 2019, it will be the most sustainable office tower in Houston, using 25% less energy than typical baseline facilities. Pre-certified under LEED v4 Platinum, one of only four core and shell projects nationwide, this sustainable office development will feature a number of green amenities, including the first and largest green roof in downtown open to all building tenants.

Irrigated by a 50,000-gallon rainwater harvest cistern, the green roof at Capitol Tower also showcases developer Skanska USA's commitment to green with a design that mitigates the urban heat island effect and keeps all rainwater on site. It features a fully automated smart irrigation system to detect rainfall and soil moisture.

The 24,000-square-foot Sky Park at Capitol Tower is inspired by the pathways of Buffalo Bayou Park and will be located 12 stories above street level. It includes an infinity edge that makes it appear as though the park is floating in the sky. It also has pathways featuring native plants and grasses, arbors evocative of the Brochstein Pavilion at Rice University, and views of several landmark buildings in the CBD, including 712 Main, the Esperson Building and Pennzoil Place.

“The Sky Park at Capitol Tower will be the first of its kind designed as an amenity to be enjoyed by all building tenants,” Matt Damborsky, executive vice president, Skanska, tells GlobeSt.com. “We see a wide variety of opportunities for the space. Whether tenants are looking to escape into the natural environment during the workday, or enjoy a private venue for corporate events, the Sky Park at Capitol Tower will serve as a distinctive gathering space within Houston's skyline.”

Sky Park was designed by OJB Landscape Architecture.

Instant Insights /

Capitol Tower is First Green Roof Open to All Tenants

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