The buildings consume 30% less energy than typical baseline buildings. Constructed with a number of sustainable features including waste diversion and energy recovery, the offices at West Memorial Place feature a mixture of stone and floor-to-ceiling glass walls as well as thermal insulation to help reduce heat gain while providing an abundance of natural light. The buildings use an energy recovery wheel, which pre-cools fresh air before it is transferred through the mechanical system. This requires less energy to cool and condition the buildings.

"We're looking forward to the move and to the additional space to grow," said Aaron Dowds, Competentia's US president. "Our team has expanded significantly over the last two years, as Competentia's footprint in the market has grown. It's time for us to move into a larger, more modern facility and we're delighted to have partnered with Skanska to make this happen. The building itself is a real source of excitement for us, with its excellent amenities, energy efficiency and close proximity to many of our clients. It's the perfect fit for our team and our business."

JLL represented Skanska, and Anthony Squillante and Collin Roach of Stream Realty Partners represented Competentia in the transaction.

"One trend we continue to see in Houston's commercial office market is a flight to buildings using automated processes to control operations within the building itself resulting in energy-efficient buildings," Damborsky tells GlobeSt.com. "Also, tenants are seeking class-A developments that boast top-of-the-line amenities. Tenants are specifically placing a premium on sustainability due to the fact that greener buildings have a more positive impact on the life cycle and operating costs of the property. Statistics show that in recent years, Houston has ranked among the top five cities nationwide (number four in 2017) with the most green office space and Skanska has been at the forefront of that trend in this market. Additionally, in the Energy Corridor, we are seeing a renewed focus on mixed-use spaces that boast unique amenities, like upscale food offerings and recreational facilities that offer an experience outside of the traditional nine-to-five environment. This focus has inspired offerings we have incorporated at West Memorial Place, like the new District 7 restaurant and our state-of-the-art fitness centers that are complemented by the adjacent Terry Hershey Park with miles of hike and bike trails."

The campus boasts amenities such as on-site food offerings through Fooda, car wash services and a bike share program. In 2017, the campus also became the fifth Enterprise CarShare location in the Energy Corridor, making it easier for tenants to utilize alternative transportation.

Skanska has built and restored local landmarks in Houston for decades ranging from historic renovations like San Jacinto Memorial building on the Houston Community College campus to the new construction of NRG Stadium and the expansion of LBJ General Hospital's emergency department.