When a financial services firm selected BIG Construction to deliver its Chicago headquarters at 150 N Riverside, the project called for more than a transformation of the workplace. It required careful coordination, thoughtful reuse of existing conditions, and the ability to navigate unexpected challenges without compromising the design vision.

BIG initially completed a 28,000 SF build-out on the building’s 37th floor, preserving key elements of the existing space, including the café, elevator lobby, and approximately 70% of the existing walls. Working within the existing footprint allowed the team to create a refreshed workplace while maintaining elements that were already serving the client well.

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Solving Challenges Without Losing Sight of the Design

During a reception refresh, the BIG team uncovered an unforeseen condition: the existing ceiling did not meet acoustic standards. Although the issue was outside the original scope, addressing it was critical to achieving the intended experience of the space.

BIG redesigned the ceiling and coordinated extensive MEP rerouting to maintain accessibility while preserving the design intent. The ability to identify the issue early, develop a solution, and coordinate the necessary changes helped keep the project moving while protecting the quality of the finished environment.

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Building on a Successful Partnership

Following the successful completion of the 37th-floor headquarters, the client selected BIG to return for a second phase of work, this time expanding the firm's footprint to the 36th floor and physically connecting the two levels.

Phase II included a 32,000 SF full-floor build-out featuring new workspaces, a conferencing center, café, warming kitchen, and additional high-capacity restrooms. The existing 37th floor was also upgraded and densified to support the firm's continued growth.

A central interstitial stair became the defining feature of the expansion, creating a physical and visual connection between the two floors while serving as an architectural focal point.

Notably, BIG was awarded Phase II without a competitive RFP, reflecting the trust established through the initial project and the client's confidence in BIG's ability to deliver in a complex, active workplace.

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Construction in an Active Workplace

Both phases required construction within an occupied office environment, making coordination and communication essential. The BIG team carefully sequenced work, maintained separation between construction and active office areas, and coordinated around ongoing business operations.

The result is a two-floor workplace that supports the client’s continued growth while integrating new amenities, workspaces, and connections into an existing environment.

For BIG, the project represents more than a successful build-out. It demonstrates the value of a strong project partnership, one that can extend beyond a single project and grow with a client's evolving needs.

Project Highlights

• Two full-floor build-outs totaling 60,000 SF

• Interconnecting feature stair

• Amenity-rich workplace expansion

• Occupied-space construction

• Phased expansion

• Collaboration with Gardiner & Theobald and Gensler

• 37th-floor headquarters and 36th-floor expansion

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Project Partners

Client: Confidential Financial Services Firm

Owner’s Rep: Gardiner & Theobald

Architect: Gensler

Photography: Kendall McCaugherty

Link to Project Page / Photos: https://www.buildbig.com/projects/confidential-financial-services