Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP

In 2020, Willkie Farr & Gallagher (Willkie) embarked on an ambitious journey by opening their Chicago office. Witnessing extraordinary growth, the firm soon realized the need to expand its workplace to accommodate the growing team, which grew from six to over 60 lawyers. To support this expansion, Willkie partnered with LJC to renovate and expand their office space by 25,000 SF. 

The project’s design ethos was curated to reflect Willkie’s Chicago office’s demographic and culture, emphasizing connectivity, collaboration, and a professional atmosphere imbued with hospitality. The renovation facilitates natural interactions among colleagues and leadership, establishes an inclusive environment conducive to mentorship and learning, and fosters engagement that mirrors the firm’s progressive perspective.

Upon entry, visitors and employees are welcomed into a space articulated with warm tones, figured sycamore cladding, and travertine flooring, leading to a reception centered around the new interconnecting staircase. This architectural gesture connects the floors physically and symbolizes the interconnectedness and open culture of Willkie’s team.

The interconnecting staircase links the 50th and 51st floors. It serves as a hub, connecting conference rooms, the mock courtroom, and a café collaboration lounge, encapsulating the fusion of communal engagement and privacy. The expansion also included the addition of a state-of-the-art, fully tech-enabled mock courtroom. It prepares Willkie’s lawyers for legal challenges, integrating new technologies to refine their practice, which aligns with the firm’s dedication to leading-edge legal practice,

The primary challenge involved the in-place renovation and expansion, necessitating a seamless architectural integration between the new and existing structures. Through close collaboration with Willkie and the general contractor, the design team successfully phased the construction, enabling uninterrupted work during the expansion.

This “wow” factor is in the lounge, which doubles as a café and flexible work and collaboration area. It caters to individual daily needs and supports Willkie’s community and philanthropic events, creating a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere.

Through a blend of innovative space planning and meticulous attention to detail, the project transcends conventional office design, embodying a timeless environment that invites hospitality and inclusiveness. This workplace transformation supports Willkie’s operational and cultural objectives. It sets a new standard for professional environments that cater to evolving workstyles and foster a sense of belonging and connection among those within.