Story

In 2005, the 99-year lease of the MB Financial branch at 801 W. Madison was up. The company, a rapidly growing Chicago-area bank focused on serving middle-market businesses, sought to continue serving their Chicago West Loop customers in an updated facility that would reflect the dynamic nature of the growth-oriented bank.

A prominent "lantern" element at the top of 50,000 sf structure provides highly visible MB signage and brand reinforcement. Two distinctive exterior wall treatments are employed bringing strong visual interest - the majority of the building is clad in a green tinted glass supported by stainless steel bands, while the street-level walls at the main entrance are recessed and feature clear glass supported by glass fins. This treatment creates an utterly transparent structure at the pedestrian level, inviting customers to the interior.

Continuing the open feeling throughout the office spaces, a system of low walls was created out of a semi-opaque glass. The interior space is warmed with natural stone floors and rich wood panel treatments on the walls, ceiling, and hallway.