The Suburban Teamster of Northern Illinois required a new headquarters that would support their operational needs while showcasing green building initiatives. The resulting 10,000 SF office building incorporates renewable materials and an energy-efficient design, with a robust concrete parking lot engineered to handle the weight and turning radius of tractor-trailers, ensuring easy access for union members. A key feature is the 1,200 SF, 72-panel solar array canopy at the entrance, which reduces utility consumption by back-feeding electrical power to the building. To maximize this array's effectiveness, the entrance canopy is oriented south for optimal solar exposure and we partnered with a solar contractor for expert installation.
This project marked one of the initial uses of solar technology, with the headquarters standing out as a model for sustainable design. Its successful execution earned the building a 2008 Award of Merit from the Association of Licensed Architects, recognizing the innovative approach to integrating functionality and environmental responsibility.