This glass tower with its mighty steel columns has been awarded several architectural prizes. Its credentials are impressive, having been certified at the gold level under the LEED-CS and LEED-EB scheme. Due in no small part to the building’s green features, it was sold just a few months after completion with 90% of the space let. This is remarkable given that the vacancy rate for office space in the area is 18%.

• Façade with low-E heat-conserving glazing
• Energy-efficient heating/cooling system complying with the ASHRAE 90.1 standard
• Natural insulation and climate control thanks to a green roof
• Energy monitoring
• Decentralised light management system featuring presence detectors
• Washbasins with flow restrictors, low flow WCs and urinals
• Use of regional building materials
• Recycling programme during construction phase and use
• Cycle parking and showers for cyclists in the building’s own fitness centre

Eco-balance
These measures reduced the CO₂ emissions of 111 South Wacker by approximately 28%.

Low-E glass to reduce heat transfer
Floor-to-ceiling glass frontages with a low-emissivity (low-E) coating allow plenty of daylight into the building but reflect solar heat gain to prevent the space from overheating. This reduces the need for air conditioning in summer, while the insulating effect cuts power requirements for heating in winter. Heat is reflected back into the inside space, thereby preventing heat loss to the outside.

Energy-optimised climate control meeting LEED standards
An energy-efficient, optimised HVAC system controls and monitors heating, ventilation and air conditioning with heat recovery. Certification according to the ASHRAE 90.1 standard (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) confirms the energy efficiency of the climate control installation.

Auto energy monitoring and ballast controls
Making economical use of resources is supported by a building services system featuring ballast controls and a monitoring and alarm system to monitor room temperatures and air quality.

Water-saving sanitary fittings
Water-saving measures have been implemented throughout 111 South Wacker. The fixtures, toilets and urinals all have flow restrictors (low flow technology).

Recycling building materials and reusing the original fabric
A comprehensive recycling programme was put in place during the construction phase. The property is built on the foundations of the former U.S. Gypsum building. Existing foundations were reinforced and new elements were added where necessary.

50% of the site waste was reused by salvaging materials for specific uses and recycling them. A total of 15% of the building materials used at 111 South Wacker was recycled.
The majority of building materials came from the local region, thus keeping transportation distances short.

User comfort according to plan
An IAQ (indoor air quality) management plan ensures excellent air quality. Spacious offices flooded with light, interesting interior design features and a mix of direct and indirect lighting for workstations also contribute to a pleasant indoor environment.

Support spans of up to 18 metres enhance functionality
The floor plates are exceptionally efficient on each level. With virtually no pillars, the office floor plans extend outwards around the core. The supports between the central elevator and service core and the façade span widths of 15 to 18 metres.

Transparency and an artistic link to the outside world
The office building’s special relationship with the outside world is apparent in the lobby. Extensive areas of white glass blur the boundary between inside and out, drawing the outdoor space into the reception area. A further indication of this openness to the outside world is the striking parking ramp, which loops over the lobby in a wide corkscrew turn, with the floor of the ramp forming the lobby’s curved ceiling. 111 South Wacker received a Distinguished Building Award in 2005 and a gold rating from the renowned American Institute of Architects in 2006.

Green mobility
Office workers at 111 South Wacker are encouraged to cycle to work. Suitable parking is provided and they have the option of using showers in the building’s fitness centre. There are also preferential parking zones for electric cars or other environmentally friendly vehicles featuring hybrid drive.