The project focuses on upgrading the performance of a complex, heavily used public building while fully respecting its historic identity and urban presence. Rather than altering the building’s profile, the intervention targets the comprehensive renewal of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, life safety, and interior lighting systems to meet contemporary operational and safety standards.
A key challenge was the technical improvement of the historically protected façade without substantial visual change. Through the integration of sunshading and ventilation strategies, façade performance was enhanced while maintaining the characteristic bronze appearance of the windows, achieved through a brown-printed frit pattern.
Beyond the required system upgrades, the project introduces sustainability driven retrofit strategies that reduce energy demand and extend the building’s lifespan. The Daley Center demonstrates how adaptive reuse can modernize large scale civic high rise buildings, reduce resource consumption, and preserve architectural identity through precise and targeted interventions.
- Client
- City of Chicago Public Building Commission
- Architects
- Behnisch Architekten
- Photography
Frank Ockert
- Downloads
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