Designed by Solomon Cordwell Buenz, Information Commons is Loyola University's first energy-efficient building. Completed in 2007, it is a great example of contextual architecture. The northern and southern sides feature concrete towers that correspond to the historic facades of surrounding buildings, while the central portion of the building is an impressive glass wall. The back of the building offers one of the best uninterrupted views of Lake Michigan in the city. The building's unique mechanical design harnesses natural ventilation, allowing it to use 50% less energy than code demands. Connected to the building is the 1930 Cudahy Library--an example of architect Andrew Rebori’s distinctive approach to early Modernism. In its Donovan Reading Room, find an Art Deco mural by John Warner Norton celebrating the late 17th century explorers of the Chicago region.
