It's Not Easy Being Green...

Picture this: One of New York’s busiest hubs is bursting at the seams. Times Square’s streets are too wide. Its sidewalks are too narrow. And office space is just too scarce.

From the rumble emerge two "Green Giants." Building slick and environmentally savvy is the rage these days. And keeping these towers completely green – in substance and spirit – is the goal.

These buildings use nontoxic materials and finishes. They are constantly improving their ventilation systems, reducing water usage and increasing energy efficiency. Some buildings even include alternate energy sources, such as solar panels. And the buildings' status as "green" has to be re-certified each year.

Like we said, it's not easy being green...

 

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Tsering Yangzom for nyc24.com

Glass Ceiling at the entrance of the Conde Nast Building

"The Durst family spent five-percent more, that they never got back. In theory, they will never get it back," Robet Fox, principal architect with Fox and Fowle.That means $10 million extra.