History
The distinctive building now known as Green Exchange was originally constructed in 1913-1914 by the Vassar Swiss Underwear Company for the production of union suits. The building design was a collaboration between architect Lawrence Gustav Hallberg Sr. and his son-in-law Stewart Hodges. Their combined talents produced an early and excellent example of turn-of-the-century industrial construction that has stood the test of time. The Vassar Swiss Co. remained in the building until 1967, when its parent company relocated to Texas. The building was subsequently sold to another company, Frederick Cooper Lamps, which operated the Logan Square factory until 2004 when the company announced it was relocating to China.
Specialties
Since 2006, Green Exchange has emerged as a center for innovation in the green economy and served as a living showcase for green design and practices. The campus is a demonstration of green business ideas put to the test, proving practical solutions for advancing the green economy exist. By housing an opportune mix of green-minded businesses under one roof, Green Exchange has succeeded in developing a synergistic community and superior working environment for tenants and their employees.