University of Chicago’s Keller Center

The most sustainable building on the University of Chicago campus, the Keller Center merges historic architectural tradition with cutting-edge design and sustainable technology.  

Originally completed in 1962 as a residence hall for the Chicago Theological Seminary, the renovated Keller Center re-opened in 2019 as a state-of-the-art education and research building. The renovation project was led by the architectural firm Farr Associates, known for their expertise in sustainable design. APMonarch LLC served as the construction manager, overseeing the project to ensure it met its design and environmental goals.  

With its clean modernist lines and original features, the building retains its modernism aesthetic while adding features that enhance its functionality and environmental impact. The building employs a plethora of environmentally friendly features, including a green roof, solar energy, a geothermal heating and cooling system, rainwater harvesting, and the use of recycled materials.  

One of the most notable changes is the central atrium, which floods the interior with natural light. The building’s interior uses wood paneling and glass to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that contrasts with the modernist exterior. The Keller Center also integrates public art into its architecture, showcasing the work of local and international artists. One notable piece is Iñigo Manglano-Ovalle’s installation, which greets visitors in the atrium. This thought-provoking artwork reflects the school's focus on addressing complex global challenges through public policy. 

The Keller Center sits in a historic part of the University of Chicago campus, which is famous for its Collegiate Gothic architecture, typified by buildings like the Rockefeller Memorial Chapel and Harper Library. This juxtaposition of old and new creates a dynamic architectural landscape that reflects the university’s balance of tradition and innovation. The Keller Center’s minimalist approach and focus on sustainability speak to the evolving nature of both the campus and the field of public policy.