Sears Tower Goes (Very) Green

The Sears Tower is undergoing a huge renovation by Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture. The project promises up to an 80% decrease in base building energy through increases in efficiency, like replacing the building's 16,000 single pane windows with more modern, energy efficient onces, and revamping the 104 high-speed elevators. But the project also calls for the implementation of green energy technologies, like wind turbines, solar hot water heating, and photovoltaics. Green roofs, lighting and mechanical controls, and low-flow water fixtures will all add to the overall performance of the building.

The project as a whole aims to save more than 68,000,000 kw/yr. This equates to 5,000,000 fewer miles of highway driving + 50,000 fewer barrels of crude oil + electricity for 2,500 average Chicago homes + 10,000,000 lightbulbs saved. At least according to the project directors.

AS+GG Architecture are also building a new 50 story luxery hotel next to the tower, and transforming the space below into a vibrant public plaza. The Sears Tower will also be renamed the Willis Tower.

For more information, you can check out the official Sears Tower renovation website, or the architects' website here.