EGSL
557 W. Polk Street
Located in the South Loop, 557 W. Polk was once an existing three-story warehouse absent of any interior walls. The building’s open floor plan was preserved in the office build-out as custom-made cubicles and desks lining the exterior were kept below head height, allowing natural light to filter in. The second floor was reconfigured with a new circulation spine along the south wall, preserving open office floor area with city skyline views. New mechanical upgrades were added to bring the facility up to modern standards. The masonry walls and terracotta tiles were sandblasted and left in place. A new polished concrete floor and custom millwork in soft wood tones are balanced against the existing hard surfaces. As an office centerpiece, the “Pill” Conference Room was inserted in the center of the open floor, creating a frosted plexiglass floating room as both function and art. Furthermore, by utilizing modern materials, the “Pill” has become an iconic symbol for the client’s firm.
This classic Chicago-type building provides viable office space in the South Loop while preserving the character of the city’s warehouse history.
