Energy and Buildings in the 20th Century; a project of the U.S. Department of Energy's Efficiency and Renewable Energy program.

Bringing you a prosperous future where energy is clean, abundant, reliable, and affordable

1940-1949

1948
Equitable Savings and Loan Association
(now called the Commonwealth Building)
Portland, OR

Architect: Pietro Belluschi

This sleek 12-story building was the first to receive a building permit after World War II, and quickly set the pattern for post-war skyscrapers. Designed with low-watt ceiling lights, mechanical heat pumps, and sealed double-glass, it was the first building to integrate successful year-round air conditioning. Sealed and tinted blue-green double-glass walls eliminate 40% of the sun's heat, but still let in lots of light.

1948 Equitable Savings and Loan Association (now called the Commonwealth Building), Portland, OR

<---Previous.....Next--->

1940 First U.S. Superhighway opens, The Pennsylvania Turnpike

1942 First solar neighborhood - Solar Park, Glenview IL - built with 30 homes

1945 Atomic bombs tested and used

1945 The United Nations is established

1946 Electronic computer developed

1948 Transistor invented, a pivotal element in sizing down electronic devices and computers

Printable Version