Client:  Undisclosed

Location:  Chicago, IL

Completed:  2004

*Work completed while at Gensler.

Project Description:

This Chicago Hedge Fund occupies the top ten floors in a prominent downtown high rise.

The nature of the Hedge Fund required that the program take on two disctinctive approaches.  On the public side, the first impression is everything.  The Elevator Lobby, Reception Area and Meeting Rooms would be treated differently then the rest of the office functions.  The concept of a clean and quiet contemporary feel was employed in the public areas to articulate confidence and privacy,  as anonymity of the hedge fund clientele is paramount.

The workplace and trading floors implemented a bright and open feel using a much lighter wood and white acoustical tiled ceiling.  The open work environment caters to the versitility and resouces of the employees as their primary responibility is for profit.

As accoutrements balance the high stress enviroment of the staff; included in the project program is a Wolfgang Puck  catered food service program requiring a full time staffed servery.  To round out the amenities, a spa and fitness program including workout facilities for the enrichment of the hard working employees.
 
As one the newest buildings in the loop, an under air floor plenum was used throughout for energy conservation.  This represented challenges as it was now necessary for stone flooring to have structural live load requirements significantly narrowing the choices asthetically.  Also a challenge, was the vibration of excercise equipment which utilized a cussioned pedestal system similar to mechanical vibration equipment.