G/BA performed engineering studies and MEP design for a large-scale redevelopment of the 34-story, 1.23 million-square-foot commercial office building on the Chicago River.
Source | Award |
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2016 | Excellence in Engineering Award, ASHRAE Illinois Chapter |
222 S. Riverside Plaza, located over rail tracks serving Chicago Union Station, was built in 1971 and is undergoing a large-scale redevelopment for a new owner. The work is proceeding while the building is occupied. Development projects include general mechanical upgrades; a fully rebuilt plaza (hardscape, landscape, drainage, lighting, and irrigation); renovation of the existing lobby; and addition of amenities areas.
G/BA has performed both an ASHRAE Level 2 energy audit and an eQUEST energy model. Findings are informing the ongoing development projects.
Mechanical infrastructure work thus far has included:
Since changes began to be implemented, the building’s electricity use is down 15%. On a peak cooling day, the high-rise core AHUs operated at 85% speed, and the low-rise core AHUs operated at 53% (compared with 100% speed and constant volume in the prior design). Peak chiller operation has reduced from three chillers to two. G/BA anticipates that the savings will ultimately reach 22% of total energy consumption.