Midwest Offices, Natural Resources Defense Council

Photo: Steve Hall © Hedrich Blessing

Location
Chicago, IL

Status
Completed 2013

Client
Natural Resources Defense Council

Type
Office

Size
7,800 sf

Sustainability
LEED Platinum Certified, Living Building Challenge Petal Certification

Tags

Reuse

In keeping with the NRDC’s mission to be the “Earth’s Best Defense,” the design of its new Midwest Office demonstrates the organization’s commitment to a cleaner, stronger environment.

In addition to achieving LEED Platinum, the Midwest Office is the first project of its kind to meet the rigorous certification requirements of the Living Building Challenge.

Pursuing these sustainability goals simultaneously presented numerous challenges such as incorporating reclaimed and recycled materials—of which not a single component could appear on the LBC’s “RED list” of forbidden substances.

Transformed into paneling, reclaimed wood trim moldings create a fluted surface that defines the space. The design’s rope wall and columns provide a structure for climbing plants, filtering the air and providing natural beauty. Felt-wrapped tectum panels and recycled glazing were incorporated into the new space, and pre-owned furniture elements were sourced and refurbished.