The Flying (Energy Saving) Carpet

The city of Chicago is a abuzz this week with the May 16th opening of the Art Institute's Modern Wing. Designed by Pritzker prize winning architect Renzo Piano, the design is incredibly striking and features an energy saving component.

Popularly referred to as the "flying carpet," the building's unique sunshade will filter daylight into the upper-level gallery spaces. The screen will save electricity consumption while helping to achieve ideal lighting conditions during the day. An interior lighting system will take the benefits of the flying carpet further by adjusting for changing levels of natural light throughout the day. These automatic adjustments will provide an optimal atmosphere for viewing art while saving electricity at the same time.

The project has filed for LEED certification, however the process has not been completed. Only time will tell how well the "flying carpet" design works to save a worthwhile amount of energy.

Images: modernwing.org

Check it out! Added bonus if you are in the Chicago area soon: FREE admission to the new wing May 16th through the 23rd.