Natural Resources Defense Council

The iconic Civic Opera Building has been home to the Midwest office of the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) since 2013. NRDC is an organization committed to safeguarding the earth--its people, its plants and animals, and the natural systems on which all life depends. Originally designed by Studio Gang Architects, the office is the first commercial tenant space in the world to earn petal certification from the Living Building Challenge. The office is also LEED for Commercial Interiors v2009 Platinum certified, the U.S. Green Building Council’s highest certification for sustainability. A similarly high bar was applied to NRDC’s 2015 expansion by Nushu, LLC. The office has a minimalist, open concept with views of the river. Access to abundant natural light, fresh air, and recycled, non-toxic materials maximize employee health and wellbeing. Curated works of art that highlight NRDC’s mission further enliven the space.