306 W Erie – Verso River North

Urban Innovations led a planned mixed-use redevelopment in the Chicago, IL River North neighborhood, one of three buildings in Verso River North. The goal was to make a calculated investment in an existing heavy timber building in a thriving business district to meet the evolving needs of commercial tenants. While the aesthetic and location were very desirable, tenants were seeking larger floor plates and room for expansion. The design vision was to double the floor plate size and leasable space, blending the existing brick and timber loft with a modern vibe.

As Lead Architect, the collaborative design solution resulted in the creation of a 48,000 square-foot, 6 story steel frame and masonry exterior addition, with floor-to-ceiling windows, in combination with an extensive renovation of the existing 58,000 square-foot, 7-story timber building, harmonizing historic with urban. Office floor plates were expanded up to 14,800 square feet on levels 1 – 6 providing tenants with more flexible options. A common amenity level was designed on the sixth -floor addition to provide desirable health and well-being spaces including a roof deck. Retail at ground level will serve tenants, visitors and the community.

The redevelopment preserves the traditional brick and timber construction, ushering in a new era of design for an office complex in River North with a view to help tenants attract and retain talented workers, while offering an ideal size for growth-oriented companies looking for a presence and visibility at the center of Chicago’s innovation community. This was the first of two projects in collaboration with North Wells Capital for the planned redevelopment in River North; the second project is 311 W Huron, a new 15-story ground up Class A office tower that brings another unique product to market.

Photo Credit: ARCO/Murray©