Chicago Interior Designer, Jordan Guide

C. Crane LED GeoBulb Light Bulb

C. Crane Company has developed this LED light bulb that uses half the energy of a compact fluorescent.  And, no need to call in the hazmat crew when you break a bulb.  Unlike dangerous compact fluorescent bulbs that release toxic levels of mercury when broken, these GeoBulbs are free of hazardous mercury and lead, and last up to 10years of daily use (3 years of continuous use).  It matches the incandescent in brightness and only uses about 10% of the power.  Now that’s a bright idea!  They are available in Cool White, Soft White and Warm White color temperatures and currently run about $95/bulb.  Yes, they do come with the standard LED pricetag, but for 10 years of use and the  piece of mind knowing you’re safe and eco-friendly, it’s worth every penny.   www.ccrane.com

Willis Tower Solar Panels and Wind Turbine

Willis Tower Green Roof

Earlier this summer, I was saddened by the name change from “Sears Tower” to “Willis Tower.”  Those feelings didn’t last long after reviewing the exciting changes that London-based Willis Group Holdings will be making to the 110-story structure (built back in 1973).  Out with the old, in with the new!  John Huston of American Landmark Properties, who represents the building ownership states, “Our plans to modernize and transform this icon will re-establish Sears Tower as a leader, a pioneer.”

Below is a list of Big Willies ambitious plans for the 5-year overhaul that is estimated to reduce electricity by 80 percent and save 24 million gallons of water a year!

• Solar Panels and Wind Turbines positioned on the 90th floors tiered roofs to heat tenants water
• 30,000 – 35,000 square feet of roof gardens will be planted
• Skydeck to add four enclosed glass-bottomed balconies
• Improvements to the 16,000 window pieces along the outside of the tower to save heating energy
• Mechanical system upgrades
• Updates to the building’s 104 elevators
• An advanced lighting control system
• Restroom renovations aimed at saving water
• Four enclosed glass-bottomed balconies added to the Skydeck
• Creation of 3,600 jobs to complete this project
• Learning center on the ground floor showcasing green efforts to the public