Equinix - Chicago III

Photos

(Click each for a larger version)

Equinix - Chicago III photo #1
Photo: Anthony May, Anthony May Photography
Equinix - Chicago III photo #2
Photo: Anthony May, Anthony May Photography
Equinix - Chicago III photo #3
Photo: Anthony May, Anthony May Photography

Citation of Merit

  • Sheehan Partners, Ltd.
  • Equinix
  • Consultants Paradigm Structural Engineers Inc.; CH2M Hill/IDC
  • Division Commercial
  • Location Elk Grove Village, IL
  • General contractor Clayco

Overview

This 285,000-square-foot, three-story building is home to up to 75,000 computer servers, so the appearance of security is important to this client. Yet the design also needed to set the client apart from its competitors. The architects dismissed a perfunctory solution; instead, their design represents a level of excellence seldom seen in this sector of work. Austere grey concrete and textured black panels create a stark but interesting façade. Once inside, silver panels and icy blue glass further suggest a strict, secure-access environment. A glass-clad corner extends from the building on the second and third floors, its cantilevered space allowing workers a glimpse of nature from within their technically driven office space.