Ensure Conservation
GEBERIT IN-WALL SYSTEMS AT THE CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART
The Cleveland Museum of Contemporary Art (moCa), designed by Farshid Moussavi, is a striking four-story structure that rises from a hexagonal footprint to a mirrored black stainless steel façade, drawing every visitor into the city’s vibrant artistic life. At nearly 34,000 square feet, moCa anchors Cleveland’s Uptown district, mixing innovation and practicality, and offering flexible exhibition space that adapts to everything from art installations and new media to public programs and educational events
→ CONSERVATION AND LEED® CHALLENGE:
Hosting 65,000 visitors yearly, moCa needed every aspect—from gallery footprints to restroom fixtures—to be durable, accessible, and eco-conscious. To achieve LEED® Silver certification, the museum was designed to lower environmental impact with 30% potable water use reduction, healthy indoor air strategies, and sustainable construction methods.
→ GEBERIT'S CONTRIBUTION:
Thirteen Geberit in-wall toilet systems were installed throughout public and staff restrooms. By concealing plumbing inside the wall, Geberit systems maximize usable space, eliminate obstructions, and provide designer flexibility for ADA compliance. Their dual-flush option allows users to select a 0.8-gallon flush for liquids or a 1.6-gallon flush for solids, contributing to a 33% reduction in water consumption while maintaining performance. Most models are WaterSense® listed, meaning at least 20% greater water efficiency than standard fixtures.
“Maintenance is simplified thanks to the leak-tested, polyethylene gravity tanks and easy-access flush plates. Installation is fast and consistent, which was essential for moCa’s construction timeline and budget.“
→ ADDITIONAL SUSTAINABILITY FEATURES & VISITOR EXPERIENCE:
Beyond restroom innovation, moCa Cleveland supports its LEED® goals through multiple building strategies:
- The museum’s glass-clad plaza, designed by James Corner FieldOperations, connects seamlessly to Uptown, encouragingpedestrian movement and daylighting, which reduces energyconsumption for lighting.
- Use of mirror-finish Rimex stainless steel on the exterior boostsdaylight inside and moderates heat gain, lowering the need forartificial climate control.
- Flexible gallery spaces lack fixed interior walls, allowing foradaptive exhibits and minimal materials use.
- The atrium’s vertical architecture supports air circulation andcreates thermal zoning for efficient energy management.moCa maintains its LEED® level by continually monitoring energyand water systems, updating lighting with high-efficiency LEDs, and hosting programs on sustainability and the environment.
→ INTERESTING HIGHLIGHTS:
moCa features a monumental staircase, immersive double-height public rooms, and the Cahoon Lounge with city views, all encouraging creative dialogue and community connection. Free daily admission and rotating exhibitions make the museum a destination for contemporary culture and environmental stewardship. New installations include LED text sculptures, neon art, and works engaging with Lake Erie and the surrounding region.
→ CONCLUSION:
moCa’s successful blend of architectural statement and LEED® strategies—exemplified by Geberit’s water- and space-saving bathroom systems—ensures this landmark sustains creativity, accessibility, and conservation for future generations.