Role: Designer at Gensler
Phase: Concept to Design Documentation
Client: PNC

Tower at PNC Plaza became the new headquarters for the sixth largest bank in North America. Currently, PNC holds the largest portfolio for LEED buildings in North America and continues to extend beyond the current trend to attain net zero buildings. These ambitions are embodied in this building, which uses passive cooling and natural ventilation. A large solar chimney at the top helps to circulate the air through the mechanical system and the building’s skin is an efficient double wall that creates a thermal buffer to help mitigate the harsh Pittsburgh climate. The atrium that runs the length of the west wall is a large porch that provides an outdoor environment while keeping the precipitation out. With all these systems the new headquarters is a benchmark for sustainability.