Mansueto Office

The iconic Wrigley Building houses the new Mansueto Office, with a breathtaking view of the river and the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive. With approximately 3,200 square feet to plan, the space needed to be flexible and functional with feeling of openness and flexibility to accommodate growth. The plan is divided into two distinct zones by a centrally located glazed conference room, providing a built-in banquette along the north wall and a primary worktable and casual conferencing zone on the south and west elevations. To keep the feel of openness, perimeter windows are open to circulation and support space was kept to minimum, with a small, efficient pantry at the back of the conference area and small internal support and focus rooms for quiet time and privacy if needed. Ceiling height was maximized by keeping the deck open with plastered-over clay tile for a smooth texture and the infrastructure elements painted out. Exposed ceiling elements were carefully coordinated to achieve a clean and orderly appearance. As a uniting design element, the team incorporated an understated and warm Japanese Ash veneer feature wall in which all the support spaces were built, with glass portholes offering a peek into some of the rooms. At a request of the client, the team kept and refurbished the original wood flooring to be reminiscent of the history of the building. Seating zones are delineated by woven wool area rugs. A built-in fireplace facing the work area became an accent piece to further emphasize the warmth and natural feel of the office. Integration of a simple and understated design, use of natural materials and textures and light palette with contrasting accents were the overarching goal for the space.