Water-Front, the mixed-use development developed in Muscat, Oman by S&T Real Estate, has been awarded LEED Gold certification by the US Green Building Council, the company has announced.

In a statement, S&T Real Estate said that Water-Front achieved LEED Gold certification for the core and shell development with a commendable rating of 74 points. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design rating system, developed by the US Green Building Council, is regarded as the foremost program for recognising best-in-class building strategies and practices in green building.

“We are honoured to receive the LEED Gold certification for the WATER-FRONT project and we really appreciate that the U.S. Green Building Council has recognised our efforts in environmental protection, energy-efficiency and sustainability. This is a testament of our commitment to creating a sustainable environment and implementing green practices,” said Waqas Al Adawi, vice chairman of S&T Group.

The LEED Core and Shell rating system is designed to meet the needs of commercial property development projects. This rating system addresses the sustainability of base building elements including the site selection, mechanical and electrical systems, plumbing, fire protection, and building envelope, he added.

The core LEED certification features of Water-Front included the construction activity pollution prevention plan, construction waste management, recycled material use, use of regional materials, certified wood-design and procurement, the developer said in the statement.

Other sustainable features incorporated are water-efficient indoor flush and flow fixtures, elimination of CFC(s), energy efficient and eco-friendly equipment, improved façade/envelope design, energy efficient light, daylight control and occupancy sensors, demand-controlled ventilation system, it added.

“LEED certification identifies Water-Front as a showcase example of sustainability and demonstrates leadership in transforming the building industry,” said Mahesh Ramanujam, president and CEO, USGBC.

Offering over 25,000sqm of leasing space for commercial, business, retail and F&B outlets, the Water-Front is a mixed-use development located in the heart of the diplomatic district of Muscat. It brings together five storeys of commercial, leisure and entertainment avenues to Oman, along with landscaping and an ocean front.

Working in partnership with Muscat Municipality, the project will offer public spaces that meet the city’s standards for public realm design, while connecting the building and external seating areas to tree-lined walkways, landscaped squares and popular public beaches. It has been created as a sustainable community gathering space, the developer asserted.