Renderings Reveal Google’s Plan to Reimagine Chicago’s Thompson Center
Charles Spencer
New renderings released by Google reveal a redesigned Thompson Center, set to become the tech giant’s future Chicago office. Featuring a lush atrium, updated public spaces, and a sleek, modern facade, the plans offer Chicagoans a first look at the building’s transformation, set for completion in 2026.
Thompson Center Development Project Updates
Thompson Center Development Project Updates
The revamped Thompson Center will feature a multi-level atrium filled with cascading plants and open seating, designed as a gathering space for both employees and the public. Google confirmed the atrium will remain open during business hours, aligning with the original building’s community-oriented design.
The exterior is getting a full upgrade, with the original metal and glass facade replaced by a triple-pane glass design for improved energy performance and a more streamlined look. On the ground floor, Google’s plans include a mix of restaurant, retail, and seasonal programming, making the building more accessible to the public.
Sustainability Goals and Design Changes: The updated building aims for LEED Platinum certification, with a switch to fully electric heating and cooling systems to better handle Chicago’s seasonal weather extremes. Key design elements, like the iconic globe lighting and cantilevered stairways, will be preserved but modernized with added seating and greenery.
Google’s Thompson Center Development Timeline
- Google purchased the building for $105 million in a deal with The Prime Group and Capri Investment Group.
- Renovations began in April 2023, with reconstruction targeted for 2026.
- Originally designed by architect Helmut Jahn in 1985, the Thompson Center was a state government building known for its postmodern style, but escalating maintenance costs led to its sale.
What It Means for Chicago: Google’s plans for the Thompson Center are part of a larger trend as developers rethink the Loop’s aging office spaces. With Google’s arrival, more businesses and residential conversions are expected to follow, potentially redefining the area’s future.
