"We're thrilled," founder Marc Margulies tells GlobeSt.comshortly after hearing of his firm's selection for a ventureexpected to cost around $90 million. "It's a great project for us."Already known for several high-profile architectural assignments inBoston, and familiar to HBM management through fit out work at thereal estate company's abutting Hobbs Brook Office Park, Margulies& Associates beat out a bevy of renowned competitors to get thenod. The difference included "a fresh approach," corporate designexpertise and demonstrated knowledge of sustainable development,says HBM first vice president Donald Oldmixon.

"Our intention is to build green," explains Oldmixon,forecasting a facility capable of meeting the LEED standard.Margulies embraces sustainability, having just assisted Blue Cross& Blue Shield of Massachusetts in developing one newsustainable building and renovating another facility. The firm isalso designing an eight-story residential/retail building in SouthBoston under the green mantra.

Margulies expressed surprise that sustainable design hardlyregistered in a review of top priorities among developershighlighted during the May RealShareBoston conference. "It's here to stay," insists Margulies,who places the upfront premium at about 1% to 2% of project cost.Elements such as waterless toilets can save huge amounts of money,he adds, "and tenants absolutely want it. If they have a choice ofgoing into a green building, they will always go."