Chicago is a dynamic global tech hub home to world-class researchers and developers in emerging fields like artificial intelligence (AI). In 2024, construction began on Google’s future Chicago home, a thoughtful renovation of the James R. Thompson Center as part of Chicago’s world-renowned architectural landscape.
KEY INFORMATION
Location: Chicago, United States
Date started: 2023
Completion date: ongoing
Client type: real estate
Main capabilities: controls and performance, cost and commercial management, procurement and supply chain
Referencing the past, designing for the future
In line with Google’s leadership in adaptive reuse of historic buildings as state-of-the-art offices, the company is committed to creating imaginative and sustainable workspaces that respect the history of local communities. Working with the Thompson Center’s original architects, Jahn, Google is planning to bring the building into the 21st century, while retaining its iconic postmodern style.
The renovation involves updating the building’s signature 17-storey, light-filled atrium. It also includes redesigning its row of covered columns to allow for an enhanced ground floor experience - including new food and beverage outlets and seasonal activations of the public plaza. Beyond a new workspace for Google’s hybrid workforce, the Center is a key development in the City’s plans for a revitalised Loop - one of Chicago's 77 designated community areas and central area of downtown Chicago.
Driving effective cost control with supplier diversity
In 2023 we were appointed to provide services to support the project’s development. The scope of work included cost and commercial management and procurement oversight. Our work included budget setting, gaining funding approvals, as well as process alignment with the developer. Negotiating the project’s guaranteed maximum price agreement was crucial in the first months - ensuring significant savings against budget and allowing the project to break ground in May 2024.
Procurement for the project prioritises engagement with XBE suppliers (businesses owned, controlled and operated by minority group members) in the Chicago area, aligning with our supplier diversity programme in the US.
Delivering sustainability in an urban space
The Thompson Center will support Google employees and visitors to have unparalleled public transport access. It is the city’s only location where six ‘L’ train lines converge, creating a central hub which connects Chicago’s south, west and north.
Environmental sustainability targets include aiming to achieve LEED Platinum certification, the highest LEED rating. Sustainable heating and cooling systems will be installed, and the building’s glass façade has also been redesigned to improve thermal performance. During construction, jobs will be created, with local recruitment a priority.
