Architect’s Office
UrbanWorks’ new 3,070-square-feet office in a vintage Chicago Loop building puts the firm’s design skills in action for their staff, while providing a demonstration lab for clients.
The main studio is a single, shared space that encourages constant communication and collaboration. Additional areas support sustained ideation, including a conference room and “Idea Space” that allows for less formal impromptu gathering in small groups with a café-like setting at the back of the office.
Naturally stained wood slats provide a visually permeable separation between reception and studio, and help obscure building services at the ceiling. Cork floors continue the palette of light and sustainable materials. Low-slung gray, white, and orange workstations keep the primary workspace bright and engaging.
A glass enclosed conference room permits for acoustic privacy while expanding the perceived size of the reception area and reinforcing the theme of openness that drives the office and all its work.