CROSBY ASSOCIATES
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 2002

Located on the second floor of a turn-of-the-century downtown Chicago high-rise, a former banking hall was converted into offices for a graphic design company. The raw structure of building was exposed and whitewashed, providing a neutral background for the display of ongoing graphics projects.   The palette of materials used includes cork, aluminum, glass, and medium density fiberboard (MDF).

All photographs by Doug Snower Photography, Chicago. General Contractor was H.R. Johnson Brothers.

Work Area

Each coffer of the original structure was uplit with two T5 light fixtures that provide uniform illumination for the work areas below. Clear coated MDF is used for all the worktops. A continuous "workwall" for displaying project in progress, is situated to the left.

Reception Area

The reception area bisects the conference area to the south and the work area to the north. An open aluminum grate ceiling provides a scrim for the cacophony of mechanical and electrical components above, while allowing light emitted from fixtures above to pass.

Plan Drawing

View of the plan of the second floor. The existing building core is shown at the top of the drawing. The reception area is below the existing grand stair. North is to the left of the drawing.

Conference Room

Large sheets of clear tempered glass, tightly butted and sealed, form the walls of the common conference rooms. The cork floors and the perimeter aluminum grating continue seamlessly beyond the glass.

Walkway at Windows

Floating workstations to the left allow daylight to be shared amongst all employees. The continuous aluminum grating that shrouds the perimeter radiators encircles the office on three sides.

Bulkhead Detail

Concealing myriad radiators and piping installed over the years, an open aluminum grate enclosure provides a unifying element throughout the office. Both horizontal and vertical surfaces are clad, with each bearing bar carefully aligned.