Google Provides Preview of Thompson Center Redesign in Chicago

Google announced plans to purchase the iconic, 17-story postmodern James R. Thompson Center in Chicago’s downtown Loop in 2022. On December 13, the company provided a “first look” on its blog at what’s in store for the 39-year-old former government building designed by architect Helmut Jahn. Google is working with The Prime Group, Capri Investment Group and Jahn’s namesake architecture firm to “bring the design into the 21^st century while maintaining its current form.” For example, its signature soaring atrium, punctuated by panoramic glass elevator cabs, will remain. Major changes will center around bringing the Thompson Center up to LEED^TM-Platinum status, making it an all-electric building. This is in line with Google’s goal to operate round-the-clock on carbon-free energy by 2030. The Thompson’s Center façade and internal systems will be completely overhauled to maximize energy efficiency, natural daylight and views. There is no word yet on what will become of the original Montgomery vertical-transportation system, consisting of 14 elevators and four escalators.