Even modern buildings are suitable candidates for historic preservation. The Architect’s Newspaper tells us that Chicago’s iconic Inland Steel Building is set to undergo an eco renovation courtesy of SOM and Frank Gehry, who is part of the development team. In light of some of Gehry’s recent comments about LEED, it may surprise some to learn that the renovation plan is targeting Platinum under LEED CS 2.0! In addition to the upgrades to the structure, which incorporate some interesting elements, the way the building is leased out will drastically reduce construction waste from tenant build-outs while preserving the modernist character of the building.

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Post tags: "leed", and merrill, chicago, Frank Gehry, green architecture, green design, green renovation, inland steel building, LEED-CS, modern architecture, owings, skidmore, SOM, sustainable design, Walter Netsch

Located in downtown Philadelphia right above the Suburban rail station, the Comcast Center has been awarded the title of “tallest LEED certified building in the US” after earning a Gold Certification for LEED-CS (Core & Shell). The obelisk-like 58 story tower is covered in high-performance glass and sunscreens, and features louvers in the atria to help optimize daylight inside the building. Many other green design features help this mixed-use skyscraper reduce energy consumption, making it a great example of environmentally responsible urban growth.

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Post tags: "energy efficiency", "leed", Comcast Center, leed certification, LEED-CS, philadelphia, Robert A.M. Stern, tallest LEED building