As for the building being a “reminder of the minimal impact that riding a bike has on the environment,” there is hardly anything minimal about the building except for what is exposed above ground. This is not a critique of the building, but of the above critique.

Furthermore, the embodied energy of constructing the building and the energy consumed in its operation will also negate much of the benefit of biking to DT Chicago in the first place. (Again, I agree with the project, but it is not a minimal or “low impact” project).

I think many elements of the project are highly successful (such as those listed below), and think both the concept and design of the building are wonderful, I just worry about its operation as I don’t feel the movement from space to space and the connection to surrounding elements is clear from THE DRAWINGS PRESENTED.

Having said that, the design is as well-done as it is modest; the two-floor main volume is a practical means of getting light into the lower spaces and good way to prevent a dark, small warren-like spaces from dominating the floor plan. Similarly, the small-portion of outwardly visible square-footage, combined with ample landscaping surrounding the glass box, prevent the structure from distracting people from and clashing with the “main event” of the park – the Pritzker Pavilion.

Again, I think the form and the concept are strong and beautiful, and I applaud the city for having a project such as this. I think having a bike parking garage would/will make biking to work more attractive to many people.