The primary design motivation was to achieve an annual "net-zero energy" status. To achieve this, the design of the building had to incorporate sustainable strategies to produce as much or more energy than it consumed over a year. Adding to this challenge was the location of the CSL building on a 2.9 acre remediated brownfield lot, which was formerly used by the Pittsburgh Department of Public Works as a storage facility and service yard.

Addressing these complex challenges to achieve its mission of sustainability required an integrative design approach, incorporating renewable energy generation, water management and energy analysis as an integral part of the design process.