Located in Chicago’s River North, the historic Reid Murdoch Building was modernized for Friedman Properties through a redesigned ground-floor lobby and new fourth-floor amenity suite that respect its industrial heritage.
NORR
Office 6,973 SF (648 SM)
Hospitality-inspired interiors, integrated greenery, and curated artwork bring character and a sense of place
Challenge
The project required balancing contemporary expectations with the building’s historic character while delivering two distinct yet cohesive scopes. There was added complexity in downsizing and transforming our own fifth-floor office to support workplace flexibility and reduce carbon footprint without sacrificing functionality or identity.
Solution
As the Interior Design partner, our design blends contemporary function with industrial character. In the lobby and amenity suite, exposed brick and blackened steel are paired with layered lighting and marble finishes to create a cohesive tenant experience. For our office, the redesign promotes a cultural shift; flexible settings, cloud-based systems, and a warm, textured palette inspired by the Chicago River support mobility, collaboration, and wellbeing.
Outcome
The result is a revitalized workplace and amenity offering that enhances tenant experience and strengthens building value. Reclaimed materials, space optimization, and digital infrastructure reflect a shift toward more adaptable, sustainable ways of working, all within one of Chicago’s most enduring historic buildings.
Layered textures, display shelving, and soft seating create an inviting destination within the office
A social hub in the heart of the workplace
Wellness-focused amenities promote movement, balance, and employee wellbeing
We reduced our Chicago office’s footprint by 40% to create a hospitality-informed workplace that reflects a deliberate shift in how and where work happens.
The reception experience balances contemporary design with the building's character
Shared workspaces encourage interaction and idea sharing
