Project overview
Norix Furniture makes Greenguard certified furniture for “challenging environments,” like hospitals, schools, and fire stations. And they step up to our shared environmental challenge. Norix has brought that stewardship to their expanded headquarters and manufacturing center in West Chicago.
The new HQ is LEED Gold Certified, with 3444 solar panels on the roof. Sustainable attributes also include a space-specific HVAC system, efficiency elements in the building envelope, and daylighting. Outside, the 22-acre site is designed to minimize soil erosion and conserve water with naturalized landscaping that blends into the local flora.
Company leaders were also focused on building a facility that would embody the firm’s culture, work environment, and serve as a foundation for attracting and retaining talent.
Norix chose to incorporate three Spotlight Solar Lift solar trees, adding 10kW to their clean energy production, but most importantly, making beautiful solar a constant reminder of the company’s values and positive impact. One of those solar trees signals the location for EV charging, providing about 15,000 driving miles worth of of clean energy each year.
Click on pictures below to see larger ones
Specifications
Energy stewardship -- Norix’s facility has 3444 solar panels on the roof. Through renewable energy, efficiency measures, storm water management, and more, the property has earned LEED Gold certification.
Visible solar -- Three Spotlight Solar Lift structures with 36 solar panels.
Exposure -- 300 employees, customers, and visitors.
Certified Integrator -- SunVest Solar
Press, impact
Best Project Manufacturing Norix Global Holdings - Engineering News Record
“Norix has made a long-standing commitment to environmental sustainability and this state-of-the art headquarters reflects its core mission. The Norix corporate headquarters was designed to combine the best in sustainability with an innovative interior and exterior design features.” - Erik Heitman, AIA, LEED-AP, Heitman Architects
“We want to be a leader in the industry and this building will be part of our legacy, a symbol of what we’re trying to accomplish.” - Scott Karl, CEO
This recruiting video shows how the solar trees signal Norix’s broad commitment to sustainability.
