INNOVATIONS CONTINUE AT ICA GREENRISE

Since ICA’s mission is “to build a just and equitable society in harmony with planet earth,” it begins here at home with our Chicago Landmark building itself being a demonstration of our mission. Indeed, that’s what was envisioned when the building was rebranded as the ICA GreenRise and launched the solar panel project in 2014. This was a major step toward this vision as ICA now generates 25% of the building’s consumed power from solar.

Interior view of new atrium and new conference center in ICA GreenRise

A historic restoration is planned for 2018 that will include work on the unique terra cotta façade, replacing first-floor windows, and constructing an interior atrium to provide more natural light for first-floor tenants and to enhance the GreenRise Conference Center’s meeting rooms.

The building’s systems (heating, ventilation, air conditioning [HVAC]—boilers, chillers, plumbing, electrical, etc.) are—and have been—at the end of their “useful life,” if not already exceeding it. The restoration plans include making innovative upgrades of the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems which will go beyond the typical approach to landlord/tenant buildout and develop a whole-building approach to maximizing comfort (thermal, air quality, and lighting) while minimizing the energy needed.  

These comprehensive optimizations will be implemented through a phased rollout starting with the first and third floors serving as the model for the remaining phases. The $15.29 million project will upgrade the building envelope to both maximize the thermal resistance (insulation) and minimize the air leakage through the walls, roofs, windows, and gaps in construction. This will be accomplished by employing passive houseprinciples which will also provide balanced fresh air with energy recovery, while reducing the loss of heat across the building enclosure.

Additionally, the first-floor lobby and stairwell will be opened up to its original appearance, and an interior atrium will be constructed along the north/south spine of the building to incorporate natural lighting throughout spaces previously cut off from the outside. This will not only enhance currently vacant areas for leasing; it will create premium conference rooms in the back of the first floor.      

Demonstration of sustainability innovations is core to ICA’s mission. These efforts are to show the world that preserving and making more efficient green buildings is the preferred way to go over demolition and new construction, especially in an urban environment filled with vintage buildings that can be community anchors, providing services for residents and catalyzing equitable development.

Our GreenRise Restoration Values Statement:

• Become A Destination for Cutting-Edge Sustainability.
• Connect Communities within the Building and Neighborhood.
• Be Financially Sound for Long-Term Success.
• Assure Quality Space Will Represent ICA’s Mission, Values, & Spirit.

ICA has used these values to put together a qualified team. Our architect, Farr Associates, is regarded as one of the most sustainable architecture firms in the country. In a similar vein, our general contractor, Skender Construction, ensures that their project managers are accredited by the U.S. Green Building Council.

This is the time and the building to demonstrate climate action for an equitable society.