LEED Gold Certified
The complexity of this project consisted of repairing and protecting the deteriorating exterior structure with a solution intended to last for the next 50 years. This is combined with a solution including daylight harvesting and creating opportunities for views that never existed in the original design. The program also required bringing the mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems up to date for the new classroom environment and building codes; computer technology needs, ADA, and LEED sustainable design criteria. The initial goal of this project was LEED Silver. Working in concert with UIC’s Office of Capital Programs and the University’s Office of Classroom Learning Environments; the project team exceeded their original goal, achieving LEED Gold and making Lincoln Hall the first LEED certified project at UIC.
The design solution successfully respects the original architectural character in the mullion spacing and butt glazed corners, while encapsulating the structure in a new highly efficient curtain wall system. The geothermal mechanical system exceeds the expectations for cooling and heating. Delivering the project under budget allowed for the addition of 240 photovoltaic modules on the roof which are projected to generate up to 15% of the building’s electrical requirements which equals approximately 50% of the heat pumps electrical usage. In May, David Taeyarts, UIC director of campus learning environments, reported that energy savings had reached more than 30%.