Preserving History & Modernizing: Brookfield's 24 E Washington Redevelopment

Brookfield Properties is embarking on an ambitious renovation project to reimagine the historic Marshall Field's department store, now the Macy's flagship store, located in the heart of Chicago's Loop. This redevelopment will convert the iconic building into up to 650,000 square feet of premier office space, featuring state-of-the-art amenities and a breathtaking rooftop deck that offers expansive views of Lake Michigan. The design prioritizes the preservation of the building's beautiful historical features, ensuring that the renovation meets the needs of modern office users while maintaining its class A condition.

The name Marshall Field's resonates deeply in Chicago's history, with its flagship retail State Street building serving as an iconic shopping destination for patrons from across the nation. In collaboration with Clayco and Lamar Johnson Collaborative, Brookfield Properties is committed to designing and constructing essential infrastructure renovations in the lower levels of the building. The project includes a new entryway and lobby featuring fourteen brand new high-speed elevators, providing modern access to the top floors and enhancing the overall user experience.

The renovations will significantly improve the aesthetics of the building both inside and out. A new grand entrance and exterior canopy will welcome visitors to the newly designated office space at 24 East Washington. Inside, the main lobby will blend Marshall Field's classic ornamental gold features with warm, contemporary finishes that reflect the building's historical significance while accommodating modern functionality. This meticulous attention to design ensures that the character of this iconic structure is preserved even as it evolves for contemporary use.

The top floors, levels eight through fourteen, will undergo a transformative process, remediating their historic condition into versatile white spaces suitable for office build-outs. These floors will not only offer stunning views of downtown Chicago but will also be equipped with cutting-edge amenities. Features such as an indoor/outdoor rooftop terrace, a well-equipped fitness center, and additional meeting spaces will provide a unique and appealing environment for tenants. Given the building's age and the comprehensive nature of the renovations, the project will require extensive structural coordination and proactive planning to maintain the integrity of the operating retail space.

In conclusion, the redevelopment of Marshall Field's building by Brookfield Properties signifies a monumental step in providing premier office space in Chicago's Loop. This project not only aims to preserve the historical essence of the building but also enhances its functionality to meet the demands of modern office environments. The renovation will breathe new life into the lower levels, enriching the aesthetics within and around the building, while the top floors will be reimagined with state-of-the-art amenities. Such an undertaking involves careful structural planning and collaboration with experts in historical renovation, ensuring that the revered features of Marshall Field's are honored during this exciting transformation.

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