The Institute of Environmental Sustainability (IES) at Loyola University is a higher education facility unlike any in the nation. It’s an innovative, interactive, and adaptable sustainable living and learning environment.

Cotter provided project management for the IES, which included renovation and new construction components. The north end of the building houses classroom and lab space for Loyola’s Sustainability Program and the south end features a new residence hall. The learning and living spaces are connected by a three-story glass structure that features a winter garden with a passive tempering system. The garden is used for teaching, research, and to grow food for the student café.

Other sustainable features include 91 geothermal wells that supply heating and cooling, two aquaponics systems that provide fish and vegetables for the café, and a Clean Energy Lab.