ESL Federal Credit Union Corporate Headquarters

Energy Savings and Light for ESL's New Headquarters

LaBella led architectural, civil/site, and environmental remediation design for a new, $55 million headquarters in downtown Rochester. This six-story, 170,000 sq. ft. building houses corporate offices, a data center, a bank branch, a cafeteria, and a fitness center for over 300 employees.

A gently curving main façade creates a public plaza and sensitively engages the Strong National Museum of Play across the street. Corporate offices occupy the upper floors and feature light-filled, open plans and views of the surrounding area.
Sustainable design practices were implemented and the team received LEED certification. The building reduces water use by 30 percent and energy use by 20 percent. Heat from the data center is reused elsewhere, and the design of the HVAC system allows building occupants to enjoy improved air quality.

The site was selected due to its proximity to existing infrastructure and connectivity to mass transit systems. Those who bicycle to work have secure bike storage areas and shower facilities available to them. Special parking for low-emission vehicles and people who carpool is available in a new parking garage that is linked to the building via an enclosed pedestrian bridge.