A trusted advisor for over 100 years, Taft Law is an esteemed practice whose success reflects both their heritage and their forward-thinking adeptness. Having cultivated significant growth over the last decade, Taft outgrew their two-floor footprint within 111 E. Wacker, an iconic Mies Van der Rohe building. As the firm considered relocating or expanding within their current home, Valenti engaged early on with Taft stakeholders to assess and budget several opportunities. The decision was made to stay, to acquire the 26th floor (adding to their 27th and 28th levels), and to reimagine 105,000-sf in total. 

Architecture and design firm, HED, led the brilliant design of the space, while Valenti managed a challenging preconstruction phase, battling post-COVID inflation, and complex, logistical and phasing requirements. Through exceptional project team collaboration, the Taft office expansion reflects an exciting, year-long project that met budget, schedule, and exceptional service expectations. The results are a modern law workplace that 1) reflects Taft’s unique legacy and brand, 2) supports their client-first culture, and 3) connects their global leadership and talent teams through a flexible and amenity-rich space. 

The Taft Law Office Expansion was a project that aimed to reexamine the physical environment of a modern law practice. The project challenged each team in marrying old and new design standards, in finding innovative ways to foster connectivity, in physically bridging three existing floors, in reflecting a client-first culture, and in executing the build-out in tandem with a fully operative, 300-person workforce. 

Following Taft’s client-first mindset, one of the main goals for the space was to incorporate a client experience center. Looking to host an array of events from social hours to depositions to presentations by prominent political figures, the space had to be flexible, welcoming and highly branded.  A new employee café was envisioned with biophilic elements in mind and is used to host staff celebrations and social gatherings.

To celebrate their outstanding workplace culture, the renovation had to incorporate outstanding amenities, and an office for every attorney. The re-design of the deep floor plate maximized the use of underutilized interior spaces, and allowed interior offices full glass fronts to take advantage of borrowed light – and to make the attorneys more connected to each other.  

To support our client and their strongly active law practice, Valenti developed a five-phased approach to the three-floor project. This allowed us to create ample swing space the attorneys and staff could utilize while construction work progressed. We began with a full gut-rehab of the newly acquired 26th floor, and once substantially completed, moved a portion of the Taft office to this floor so we could begin modifying the 27th and 28th levels. A downtown, major renovation within an occupied office tower – this project demanded exceptional foresight, tight sequencing, and a shared commitment between Valenti, trade partners and Taft themselves. Every project participant demonstrated a willingness to exceed expectations, and this allowed us to stay on schedule while building in the least disruptive way possible. 

Taft takes pride in having an empowered, geographically dispersed management team composed of leaders from every practice group. The new space had to bring their diverse practice groups together and enable them to collaborate more readily.

Central to that desired collaboration and the Taft expansion story is the transformative staircase. When the project began, an older, two-story stair connected the original office floors. HED presented a bold new vision for a three-story stair, and several teams brought it to life through structural modifications and virtual design. Early in the project we cut through the slab of the 27th floor with two ensuing goals: 1) replicate and extend the existing stair structure to bridge three levels and 2) modernize certain design elements based on HED’s vision.

The existing stair was a challenge to replicate due to a helix-like curvature, so we began with building a blueprint. By laser scanning the original steel structure we were able to achieve an accurate 3D model, and then used the model to virtually design the extension in PointCloud. This technology allowed multiple trades (steel, glass, and millwork) to prefabricate their respective components, and allowed us to build the new addition entirely offsite. Modifications were also made to the existing stair, adding a second layer of steel to support the new glass rail detail. The modernization of the structure focused on elegant minimalism – and incorporates curved glass railings, walnut stringers and black metal accents that play off the building exterior. 

The result is a monumental, sculptural stair that acts as the heart of the space and serves as a prime circulation path connecting practice groups assigned to different floors. A 10-foot custom light fixture follows the spiral shape of the stair and is a modern interpretation of the traditional chandelier.

Celebrating over 100-years of heritage as a trusted advisor, the firm today also prides itself in being progressive and forward-thinking. The renovation reflects a new image of the modern law firm and its progressive, forward-thinking brand.

The shift towards hybrid and remote work caused many companies to shrink their real estate footprint. Not Taft. They instead chose to invest in expanding their footprint to support their outstanding workplace culture, obsessive client-first mentality and service-oriented leadership. The new space supports these values by ensuring assigned workspaces are provided for every team member; by providing an iconic stair that connects all their levels and people both physically and figuratively; by enabling all meeting spaces with the technology tools to bring their diverse practice groups together more readily; and by assigning over 25% of their footprint to client and staff focused amenities. 

Because the project was a renovation in place, it had to be phased to ensure business continuity. As a result, the construction schedule extended for almost two years and had five phases. During this time, the GC, Client and Architect each used this project as an opportunity to mentor a junior team member on the process of construction, operations and design respectively. These mentees could attend meetings and visit the construction site weekly and acquire hands-on experience.   

In addition, careful attention was placed to ensure amenity spaces were designed with inclusion and belonging in mind, from new accessible single user restrooms to wellness and mothers’ rooms to a variety of furniture options to fit everyone’s needs. All signage in the common spaces has braille and all technology in conference rooms has accessibility features.

Approximately 50,995 total man hours were logged on the downtown Taft Law Office Expansion with zero lost time. Safety is a top priority within any Valenti project, from both a building perspective and site security perspective. Valenti proactively engaged all project stakeholders and developed a Site-Specific Safety Plan with layered protocols, vetting and assurances. While plans were developed very early in the process, our team also conducted ongoing safety meetings to consistently assess, reexamine, and ensure proper measures were always taking place.

Designed as a place where “Cities and Parks come together”, our new office for Vizient® in Chicago’s West Loop integrates a modern, sophisticated, and technologically-forward aesthetic with the art deco detailing of the historic Old Post Office.

As the nation’s largest provider-driven healthcare performance improvement company, a variety of programmatic needs and elements were needed to accommodate the consolidation of two Chicagoland office locations across the 110,000 square feet workspace.

Embracing the architecture of the Old Post Office, we leveraged the large ceiling height to create a variety of unique architectural volumes throughout the space. These masses clad in an array of architectural finishes provide an approachable, human scale to the voluminous space.  Additionally, drawing natural light into the space and providing several areas of extensive greenery throughout brings a sense of warmth and comfort to the large floorplate.

Community is at the core of Vizient’s company values and is reflected throughout the office plan. With this in mind, our team created the boulevard, a transverse spine that anchors the entire workspace and offers the opportunity to connect, collaborate, and interact with fellow colleagues. Highlighted and encased in dramatic, architectural, bent-wood ribs while neon signs and strategically placed street-lamp-inspired globes highlight pathways and provide a visual reference that frames one’s relation to the boulevard.

The space is filled with a variety of work and leisure spaces to ensure the best possible employee experience including the Grand Town Hall, a light-filled multipurpose area overlooking the Chicago River

In constructing Vizient’s 110,000-square-foot workspace within the historic Old Post Office, the project team emphasized comprehensive preconstruction planning and close collaboration with the design team to ensure alignment with the project’s aesthetic and functional objectives. The harmony between the build and design teams allowed us to identify and adopt the most effective constructability means and methods, providing maximum efficiency and precision in our approach. By employing full-scale mock-ups for complex aspects of the buildout, we proactively minimized errors and refined our approach, ensuring a smooth transition from concept to construction. Rigorous quality checks on materials confirmed the project met and exceeded high standards, reflecting the team’s commitment to excellence and efficient project execution, ultimately delivering a state-of-the-art office space that seamlessly blended with the Old Post Office’s historic charm.

In the pursuit of fostering Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), the physical design of our spaces reflects a commitment to accommodating diverse needs. Many of the Vizient spaces are specially designed to contribute with Diversity and Inclusion.Starting with adding several single user/gender neutral restrooms to the space since the base building restrooms are only men/women assigned stall restrooms. We also included prayer rooms in the space with foot washing stations so that employees that have prayer as part of their daily routine could have a comfortable, private and assigned space to practice. 

The architecture embraces both communal and private spaces, acknowledging the varied engagement preferences within the spectrum of neurodivergence. The incorporation of elements like the central spine boulevard and generously proportioned community and intimate spaces ensures that the environment remains relatable and human-centric. Additionally, the infusion of natural light and greenery serves a dual purpose by enhancing Biophilic elements and creating a warm, inviting, and friendly atmosphere. Branding also enforced the Diversity and Inclusion policies, assigning one of the corridors with a colored chain installation that turns into black/white/grays making reference to inclusion where colors or no colors are all welcome and accepted in the space. Through thoughtful design choices, PBD sought to design a space that not only meets physical requirements but also nurtures a sense of belonging for everyone.

The Vizient project achieved a remarkable milestone of approximately 55,000 work hours without any work-related injuries. This is emphasized by proactive communication and demonstrated through weekly safety meetings, daily foreman’s meetings, and weekly safety-production-quality (SPQ) walks by Skender. These practices ensure that every team member on the project maintains the highest level of safety awareness and commitment.

Experience the wonder that is Wonderverse! This highly anticipated, 45,000-square-foot, one-of-a-kind, immersive entertainment destination provides a transformative space that includes a hybrid of physical and multi-media experiences, interactive installations, dynamic attractions and dining experiences, allowing visitors to step into their favorite Sony Pictures stories. Patrons are provided the opportunity to explore Uncharted escape rooms, step into Ghostbusters and Jumanji virtual reality adventures, smash Zombieland bumper cars, and enjoy a haunted drink at The Ghost Trap, a Ghostbusters speakeasy.  

This well-planned and executed immersive entertainment destination serves as a catalyst for positive change within the community, fostering economic growth, community engagement and overall well-being.

The successful execution of the project was underpinned by a steadfast commitment to prioritizing and adhering to safe work practices.

At Graycor, we understand the success of a construction project begins well before the first shovel hits the ground. Seven months prior to the start of construction, Sony engaged Graycor for preconstruction services. Our comprehensive range of preconstruction services are designed to ensure every aspect of a project is thoroughly planned, analyzed and optimized for success. 

Sony imagined a place where guests could step beyond the screen into some of their favorite movies and dive deeper into the stories created by immersive worlds. Familiarity with the latest advancements in design and technology, as well as our vast network of specialty FF&E vendors provided a unique expertise that allowed Graycor to assist Sony in bringing this prototypical, first-to-market concept to life.

Wonder is all around and made to meet you at every turn. Wonderverse features a variety of unique experiences, inspired by a celebration of curiosity and connection. Attractions include:

•UNCHARTED: THE PURSUIT: Three thrilling escape rooms based on the action-packed blockbuster movie, UNCHARTED.

•GHOSTBUSTERS VIRTUAL REALITY ACADEMY: Two distinct virtual reality experiences providing patrons the opportunity to be a real Ghostbuster. 

•PACIFIC PLAYLAND: Inspired by the decrepit carnival in Zombieland, patrons can master arcade classics, win prizes and stay alive. 

•ZOMBIELAND BUMPER CARS: In this bumper car ride, patrons must avoid “Patient Zero” or become a Zombie. 

•JUMANJI: REVERSE THE CURSE: Become part of the game in a virtual reality pursuit to stop the spread of evil and “Reverse the Curse.”

•BAD BOYS RACING CLUB: Ride like the BAD BOYS on a high-speed chase through a Miami-inspired skyline in this collection of racing simulators.

•THE GHOST TRAP: Some say this hidden speakeasy is haunted, it will be up to those who visit to determine if it’s true or not.

Communication and coordination were imperative during the buildout of these intricate spaces. The electrical contractor and the owner’s lighting/audio vendors had distinct but interconnected scopes of significant work. Effective communication and coordination were crucial in the initial planning phase, as well as throughout the project, to ensure that all teams were aligned with the project’s overall goals and timelines. Timely and open communication was vital for addressing unexpected challenges promptly and collaboratively. The ability of the teams to share information in real-time allowed for swift problem-solving and allowed the project to remain on track.

Regular communication between the teams was also essential for quality assurance. The electrical, lighting, A/V, special effects and attraction components needed coordinated inspections, tests and validations to ensure that the final product met the highest standards. This collaborative approach contributed to the overall success of the project.

By working hand in hand with the owner (Sony Pictures), the owner’s rep (Scenario), the Architect (exp), the designer (BRC) and the operator (MR-ProFun), the project was executed seamlessly, meeting all milestones and concluding within the allocated timeframe and budgetary constraints. The successful completion underscores our team’s efficiency, meticulous planning and commitment to delivering high-quality results in a cost-effective and timely manner.

Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) capabilities were also instrumental components that ensured quality building system installations by visualizing projects, detecting clashes with building systems and helping our trade partners prefabricate and install their scopes of work. For this project, Graycor worked with our HVAC subcontractor to use VDC and BIM for the coordination of HVAC, electrical and plumbing components. By utilizing fully integrated models ahead of construction to eliminate problems typically discovered in the field, both time and costs savings were realized.

The quality of construction and level of involvement from the Graycor team positively impacted client satisfaction. “Graycor’s meticulous attention to detail throughout the entire process was essential to the success of the project. Their entire team was impressive from start to finish, and the Sony team had a great partner in Graycor,” said Jeffrey Godsick, EVP of Global Partnerships and Brand Management and Head of Location Based Entertainment at Sony Pictures.

We recognize that strong relationships are based on mutual trust and professionalism. Building these kinds of relationships is not only our biggest accomplishment—it’s our greatest privilege.

A well-planned and executed immersive entertainment destination can serve as a catalyst for positive change within a community by fostering economic growth, community engagement and overall well-being.

Located just outside of Chicago at Oakbrook Center, one of the Country’s most visited shopping malls, Wonderverse provides a unique and carefully curated, immersive experience that allows patrons to step beyond the screen, and into some of their favorite Sony Pictures movies to dive deeper into the stories created by immersive worlds. 

The establishment of an immersive entertainment destination such as Wonderverse requires a workforce for various roles such as hospitality, maintenance, security and management, which leads to the creation of job opportunities, increasing employment in the community.

“We’re thrilled to be the first location for Sony Pictures Entertainment’s Wonderverse and have it as our largest entertainment option at Oakbrook Center,” Tim Geiges, Senior General Manager of Oakbrook Center said. “We often hear from guests how they love our mix of entertainment, so we’re excited to offer a completely new experience for them to enjoy.”

Wonderverse is an accessible establishment and offers accommodations for all guests. Increased footfall generated by Wonderverse has the potential to boost local businesses, such as restaurants, hotels, shops and even transportation services, creating a ripple effect of economic growth. Met with wonder at every turn, this first-of-its-kind immersive entertainment destination also has the potential to attract visitors from neighboring regions and even internationally. This influx of tourism would also bring in additional revenue for the community. Similarly, the revenue generated by Wonderverse, as well as associated businesses, contributes to local tax revenue, which has the potential to be used to fund public services and infrastructure improvements.

Wonderverse is also proud to support local talent, artists, influencers and others who express wonder through their work. From merchandise collaborations to foodies, fresh art enthusiasts and everything in between—they’re always looking to work with those who wander.

At Graycor, safety is not just a policy but a key part of our culture. Our safety program continues to evolve to ensure both physical and psychological worker health and safety are considered. This holistic safety culture is exemplified through “Building a Culture of Care” and is an integral part of the way we do business. As a family-owned and -operated company, “Nothing is more important than safety…not production, not sales, not profits.”

“Building a Culture of Care” shifts the focus from traditional construction jobsite ‘safety cop’ mentality to a coaching and positive reinforcement mentality. To build a positive safety culture on our projects, we ask our employees and craft workers to take a more active role in keeping their coworkers out of harm’s way by stopping unsafe acts by helping each other work safely through corrective action.

Our Culture of Care is augmented by the Good Catch program, which is based on a reward system. When team members identify and help correct unsafe acts and/or conditions, they may be rewarded with a gift card or earn an opportunity to win prizes through a raffle system. For example, one of our electricians noticed an area where dryfall paint from the ceiling had made a high-traffic area slippery. The painter was unaware, as it was outside of the plastic barricade area. The electrician notified her foreman, as well as our superintendent, and they were able to address the area and notify all subcontractors at the daily Task Safety Analysis (TSA) meeting.

For this specific project, Graycor also developed a comprehensive, site-specific safety plan and safety training was required of every employee on site. Daily safety meetings and bi-weekly safety audits were also conducted. 

The project had a lost time rate of 0.00 and one minor recordable incident—a laceration with a utility knife by an electrical subcontractor. While any safety incident is a cause for concern, it’s essential to highlight the positive aspects of how the incident was managed, corrected, and turned into an opportunity for improvement. 

In the spirit of continuous improvement and an unwavering commitment to safety the incident prompted an immediate and thorough review of safety protocols and procedures, and through a collaborative effort identified areas for enhancement. Graycor swiftly implemented corrective measures to ensure the well-being of our workforce. As a result of this incident utility knives were removed from the jobsite and Graycor worked with our electrical subcontractor to source retractable knives, level 5 cut resistant gloves and specific tools for pulling wire, as our electrical team had the largest and most complex scope of work.