Clean Technology Tower
Architect: Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture
Adrian Smith, Design Partner
Gordon Gill, Design Partner
Robert Forest, Management Partner
| Project Team: |
Brad Wilkins, Brendan Gibbons, David Ellis, Ian Mills, Jorge Soler, Les Ventsch |
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Building on principles of biomimicry,
Clean Technology Tower utilizes advanced technologies and
climate-appropriate building systems to foster a symbiotic
relationship with its local environment. The tower is
sited and formed to harness the power of natural forces at
its site- but it refines the conventional methods of
capturing those natural forces to significantly increase
efficiency. Wind turbines are located at the building’s
corners to capture wind at its highest velocity as it
accelerates around the tower. The turbines become
increasingly dense as the tower ascends and wind speeds
increase. At the apex, where wind speeds are at a maximum,
a domed double roof cavity captures air, allowing for a
large wind farm and the use of negative pressures to
ventilate the interior spaces. The dome itself is shaded
by photovoltaic cells that capture the southern sun. These
systems provide both comfort and energy to the space.
The complex includes over 1.8 million square feet of
office space as well as a 300,000 square foot hotel, a spa
and street-level retail. Dedicated elevators will provide
access for both office and hotel tenants to all of the
tower’s amenities.
An adjacent grand plaza and park enhances the tower’s
relationship with the surrounding neighborhood and
provides a public gathering space for tenants. The plaza
also complements an existing adjacent winter garden and
strengthens the connection between the existing retail and
the new tower.
The tower is easily accessible via both public and private
transportation. Hotel and office lobbies have dedicated
street entrances and vehicle pick-up and drop-off
locations. Service access to the building and parking are
available below grade.
The tower affords tenants unparalleled views of the city,
the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. Office space will be
located on high floors to maximize available views and
take advantage of the direct natural daylight. The tower’s
domed top offers unrestricted skyward views, creating a
truly modern, grand atrium space. |