Situated along the Chicago River, a global law firm’s new 27-floor, 650,000-sq-ft headquarters delivers a heightened workplace design for 1,500 employees. The LEED Gold-targeted space blends river and lake views with interconnected staircases, mouth-blown glass fixtures and collaborative amenities.

Photo by Garrett Rowland photos for Private Law firm

The project’s most complex hurdle—engineering, fabricating and installing six architecturally intricate staircases—required precision planning, custom cladding and even a helicopter lift for oversize fire doors. Long-lead lighting, concealed fire protection systems and 1,200 precision-cut stone pieces demanded meticulous coordination.

Photo by Garrett Rowland photos for Private Law firm

Clune’s multi-subcontractor strategy kept trades efficient, while 532,000 safe work hours were achieved through task-specific hazard analyses, targeted safety stand-downs and weekly audits. The result is a dynamic, high-performance headquarters that enhances productivity, fosters connection and sets a benchmark for safe, innovative urban office construction.

Back to ENR Midwest Best Projects 2025