Harris School of Public Policy Keller Center

Could a building inspire social change? Here at the Harris School of Public Policy Keller Center, the answer is a resounding yes. The Keller Center isn’t just a building. It’s a testament to the power of thoughtful design and sustainable practices interwoven with the pursuit of a better world. The Harris School of Public Policy, nestled within the University of Chicago’s Hyde Park campus, found its home in this renovated structure in 2019. Formerly a residence hall designed by Edward Durell Stone, the building underwent a transformation, thanks to a generous $32.5 million gift in 2014. The Harris School of Public Policy Keller Center now stands as a beacon of innovation and sustainability. Inside the Keller Center, a four-story atrium, known as the Forum, serves as the heart of the building. Constructed with reclaimed wood from Chicago’s fallen ash trees, the Forum provides a vibrant space for collaboration and informal gatherings. The Harris School of Public Policy Keller Center isn’t just aesthetically pleasing. It actively contributes to a healthier environment. The building boasts a rainwater harvesting system that collects and stores water in a 15,000-gallon cistern. This water is then used for toilets and landscaping, easing the burden on Chicago’s storm system. Atop the Harris School of Public Policy Keller Center, a relocatable photovoltaic roof system generates clean energy. This allows for future expansion while demonstrating the school’s commitment to sustainable practices. The Harris School of Public Policy Keller Center achieved LEED Platinum certification, a testament to its environmentally conscious design. It’s also among the first in higher education to earn Petal Certification under the Living Building Challenge. This framework pushes for the elimination of harmful materials and chemicals, prioritizing human and ecosystem health. The renovation reused much of the original structure, including the concrete beams, columns, floors, and exterior limestone facade. This significantly reduced the building’s embodied carbon footprint. The Harris School of Public Policy Keller Center is more than just bricks and mortar. It embodies the spirit of positive social change. The building’s design fosters open dialogue, encourages interdisciplinary investigation, and promotes passionate problem-solving. The Harris School of Public Policy Keller Center stands as a symbol of hope. It is a reminder that innovative design and sustainable practices can create a space where positive change is not just envisioned but enacted.