The office tower at 300 North LaSalle in Chicago is one of only a handful of buildings to receive Platinum certification under the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED for Existing Buildings (EB) rating system. The tower previously received Gold certification under the LEED for Core & Shell (CS) Rating System.
KBS REIT II purchased 300 North LaSalle in 2010. The tower, developed by Hines, was completed in 2009 and is still managed by the firm.
Designed by the internationally recognized firm Pickard Chilton, the 57-story, 1.3 million-square-foot building, located on the north bank of the Chicago River between the River North district and the Central Business District, offers 200 feet of frontage along the river, including an outdoor plaza with seating and a large waterfront café. Rising 775 feet, 300 North LaSalle is among the city's tallest buildings.
The tower is extremely energy efficient with a façade clad in richly articulated glass and stainless steel, maximizing the introduction of daylight and minimizing solar gain. To reach the goal of Platinum certification, green features implemented at the property included: river-water intakes for condenser water, which eliminate the need for potable water for cooling and irrigation systems; a recycling program for paper, glass, aluminum and plastic; a green roof to reduce heat island effect; light switches with motion detectors; and low-flow water fixtures throughout the building. Additionally, Hines offers its proprietary GREEN OFFICE for Tenants program, which assists in giving tenants options to reduce their carbon footprint.
300 North LaSalle earned the Energy Star label in 2010, 2011 and 2012. “300 North LaSalle achieving LEED Platinum demonstrates our commitment to the environment, as well as our sustainability efforts to our tenants and community. This tower adds stature and prominence to Chicago’s great skyline while respecting our mission in sustainable design,” said Hines Vice President - Property Management Lance Knez.
“We are proud 300 North LaSalle achieved such a high level of certification. The LEED Platinum label validates our commitment to provide tenants with energy-efficient, cost-effective and productive work spaces,” commented KBS Senior Vice President and Asset Manager Ken Robertson.
Hines Global Sustainability Officer Gary Holtzer added, “By achieving LEED certification at 300 North LaSalle, the local project team demonstrates to our owners, tenants, prospective tenants and the community that this property is being managed to the highest standard of excellence.”
The building is 99 percent leased to a notable tenant roster including: The Boston Consulting Group; GTCR; Kirkland & Ellis LLP; and Quarles & Brady LLP.
