When tasked with the renovation of their Chicago office, the SOM design team had the objective of creating a high performance office space within a historic Daniel Burnham building. Specific design goals included achieving an image of design excellence to reflect the architectural practice that it houses, and to integrate the firm’s sustainable ideal into every aspect of the design. The 45,500 sf space is currently targeting LEED ® for Commercial Interiors Silver certification.
The renovation team placed strong emphasis on open office planning to promote collaboration between the company’s various disciplines. Conference rooms and teaming areas were relocated from previously enclosed spaces to the perimeter to allow for enhanced natural daylight and views of Lake Michigan. Emphasis was given to the creation of a customized and automated lighting system to enhance daylight penetration from both the perimeter glazing and interior atrium of the building, resulting in an elegant and light-filled space which increases the productivity and well-being of staff. The integration of daylight harvesting reduces energy consumption 5% below the energy code (ASHRAE IES 90.1 2004).
Material selection was equally integral to the design and involved thorough life-cycle analysis and indoor environmental quality considerations to ensure a space with reduced embodied energy and improved air quality for staff. Notable aspects of the material selection include: rapidly renewable bamboo flooring, carpet with high-recycled content, low toxicity paint and recyclable furniture. An emphasis on waste reduction was applied throughout design, construction and post construction.
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