Google Revealed Thompson Center Redesign
New architectural renderings show the transformation of the historic Chicago landmark for a modern office space.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Commercial
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Google has unveiled its latest architectural vision for the Thompson Center in Chicago, showcasing a significant overhaul of the site that first opened in 1985. The project aims to modernize the space for more than 2,000 local employees while preserving the building as a work of postmodern architecture.
Why it matters
The project represents a shift in urban office strategy, as the building was once slated for demolition due to high maintenance costs and climate control issues. Preservationists successfully campaigned to save the structure, leading to this partnership to revitalize a core piece of the city skyline.
The renovation project, which began in May 2024, includes the replacement of the original glass-and-metal exterior. The center, originally completed in 1985, will feature a new 30-foot-tall sculpture titled Vector as part of its modernized public plaza.
The players
A global technology company expanding its footprint in Chicago with a focus on modernizing landmark commercial spaces.
The Prime Group
The real estate firm that purchased the Thompson Center in 2022 to facilitate its transition from state office space to private use.
Bruce Rauner
The former Governor of Illinois who initiated the effort to sell the building in 2015 citing maintenance costs.
Architecture Plus Information
The design firm collaborating with stakeholders to execute the structural and aesthetic changes to the center.
After School Matters
A Chicago-based non-profit organization contributing a commissioned art piece to the atrium.
The details
Designed in collaboration with Architecture Plus Information, the renovation involves stripping away portions of the original exterior and interior atrium. These changes address long-standing climate control inefficiencies that plagued the postmodern structure for decades. The design incorporates new artistic elements, including a commission from After School Matters, to integrate the office space into the fabric of the city's Loop.
Timeline
1985: The James R. Thompson Center was completed.
2015: Governor Bruce Rauner proposed selling the building.
2022: The building was sold to The Prime Group.
May 2024: Renovations of the building began.
September 16, 2026: Google announced the building redevelopment renderings.
The Home Front
The redevelopment highlights a trend in urban planning where historic commercial assets are repurposed rather than demolished to meet modern sustainability standards. This pivot marks a departure from the original intent of the 1985 structure by adapting its postmodern form for corporate needs.
Residents living or working near the Loop should anticipate continued activity at the site as exterior modifications proceed throughout the year. Keep an eye on local transit alerts, as the high-profile nature of the construction may cause temporary sidewalk or traffic adjustments nearby.
The takeaway
The Thompson Center redevelopment shows how adaptive reuse can save iconic architecture while solving long-term maintenance burdens. Chicago residents can look forward to seeing the new Vector sculpture installation as the plaza area nears completion later this year.
Further reading
For updates on how local commercial development impacts the city, read more in our Commercial section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ArchDaily.
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Should cities prioritize renovating historic landmarks over demolishing them for new development?
