Neal Gerber Eisenberg’s Building Lowers Energy

Neal Gerber Eisenberg (NGE) announced that its newly built-out office at Chicago Landmark building, The Bell, achieved an 18% reduction in energy consumption beyond required building codes, which was achieved through high-efficiency HVAC systems, LED lighting with daylight and occupancy sensors and ENERGY STAR-rated equipment.

July 14, 2025

Published by SED

Commercial, Energy Efficiencies, Equipment-Specific Replacement (HVAC, Heat Pumps, Lighting, Boiler, Chiller, etc.)

Law firm Neal Gerber Eisenberg (NGE) announced that its newly built-out office at Chicago Landmark building, The Bell, achieved an 18% reduction in energy consumption beyond required building codes, which was achieved through high-efficiency HVAC systems, LED lighting with daylight and occupancy sensors and ENERGY STAR-rated equipment.

The Bell also received LEED Platinum Certification under the LEED v4 Interior Design & Construction (ID+C) rating system, the highest level awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council. Based on public data, NGE is the only law firm in Chicago to have achieved this distinction.

The firm’s relocation to 225 W. Randolph in May 2025 was guided by the company’s commitment to achieving environmental goals. The project earned 85 points across all eight LEED categories, making it the second-largest LEED v4 ID+C Platinum Certified interiors project in Illinois.

“Our goal was to create a space that reflects our values — efficient, inclusive, and forward-thinking,” said Sonia Menon, Chief Operating Officer of NGE, in a statement. “We didn’t just want a beautiful office; we wanted one that actively reduces our environmental impact and supports the well-being of our people. This certification validates the rigor and intentionality behind every design and construction decision.”

NGE also diverted over 75% of construction waste from landfills, reusing existing furniture and selecting products with proven low-carbon footprints through Environmental Product Declarations as well as carbon reduction plans. A full life-cycle assessment guided material choices and resulted in a 32% reduction in embodied carbon.

The construction of the building also achieved over 40% water use reduction from EPA baselines across all plumbing fixtures, saving a projected 170,000 gallons annually through low-flow, touchless automatic fixtures and collaboration with the base building owner.

The office is steps from major transit lines and bike routes, enabling employees to reduce their commuting footprint. The building’s central location also provides easy access to essential services, reinforcing NGE’s commitment to sustainable urban integration.