University of Chicago South Campus Chiller Plant
1. July 2010
The design of industrial buildings is far-too-often relegated to engineers and contractors, but the occasional high-profile structure of the type includes an architect's involvement. Chicago's Murphy/Jahn have created a stunning example of such at the University of Chicago on the city's south side. They answered some questions about their role on the project.
Exterior view with existing steam plant behind(Photo: Rainer Viertlboeck)
What were the circumstances of receiving the commission for this project?
Exterioir elevation at night(Photo: Rainer Viertlbock)
Can you describe your design process for the building?
The process involves a rational approach to design, based on function, performance, materials and construction. The resulting expression becomes a piece of art, displaying technical equipment and its working in a celebratory way, exposed to view.
Interioir view of process piping(Photo: Doug Snower)
How does the completed building compare to the project as designed? Were there any dramatic changes between the two and/or lessons learned during construction?
Architect's Concept Sketch(Drawing: Helmut Jahn)
How does the building compare to other projects in your office, be it the same or other building types?
Floor plans
(Drawing: Murphy/Jahn)
Façade detail drawing(Drawing: Murphy/Jahn)
University of Chicago
South Campus Chiller Plant
2009
Chicago, IL
Client
University of Chicago Facilities Services
Architect
Murphy/Jahn
Chicago
Design Principal
Helmut Jahn
Project Architect
Scott Pratt
Project Manager
Peter Hayes
Project Team
Kathleen Wendland
Izabella Bednarz
Dane Hawthorne
Structural Engineer
Burns & McDonnell
Building Structure
Werner Sobek Ing.
Façade Structure
MEP/FP Engineer
Burns & McDonnell - Chiller Plant Process MEP / Primera - Building MEP
Landscape Architect
Terry Guen Design Associates
Contractor
Bovis Lend Lease
Civil Engineer
Burns & McDonnell
Site Area
43,500 sq. ft.
Building Area
26,400 sq. ft.
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