Google reimagines Chicago's Thompson Center as a mixed-use hub
Historic building transformed with public art, community programs, and tech workspace by 2028
1Historic transformation
Google is redeveloping Chicago's iconic Thompson Center into a mixed-use hub combining workspace, public amenities, and cultural elements. The 2028 project preserves the building's legacy while adding modern features like an activated atrium, grand staircase, and retail spaces. The redesign maintains the building's role as a civic crossroads while adapting it for contemporary use. This marks Google's continued expansion in Chicago since first establishing offices there in 2000.
2Artistic centerpiece
Artist Sanford Biggers will create 'Vector', a 30-foot sculpture for the plaza, drawing from Chicago's art history and 19th-century quilt patterns. The work continues Biggers' Codex series exploring hidden meanings in textiles, with designs referencing Underground Railroad signals. Local museum collections provided historical inspiration for the glazed terracotta tile patterns. This represents one of Biggers' most significant works, connecting his artistic journey that began at Chicago's Art Institute.
3Youth art programs
Google partnered with After School Matters for a 10-week program where teens will create large-scale art for the atrium. The nonprofit, celebrating 35 years, serves 20,000 Chicago teens annually with paid creative opportunities. Young artists will respond to the building's architecture, embedding youth perspectives into the space. This continues Google's pattern of community-focused art initiatives in major developments.
4Education investment
Google.org is providing $1 million to A Better Chicago's 'Every Day Counts' initiative targeting chronic absenteeism. The program aims to halve absenteeism rates in Chicago Public Schools over five years by strengthening student engagement. Funding supports community organizations providing services to keep students in school. This complements Google's broader $150 million commitment to Chicago's South and West sides announced in 2022.
5Design highlights
The redesign features dramatic sightlines through an oculus entrance on Randolph Street, with retail and dining flanking the atrium. The grand staircase serves as both circulation and gathering space, connecting to CTA transit. Public areas blend work and community functions, with the plaza becoming an art destination. The design preserves the building's distinctive sloping facade while modernizing interiors for tech workspace needs.
6Cultural preservation
The project honors the Thompson Center's history as a democratic public space where diverse Chicago populations intersect. Art commissions deliberately engage with local history, from Underground Railroad references to contemporary Chicago artists. The atrium will feature additional works by Chicago-connected artists. This approach maintains the building's civic identity while adapting it for 21st-century use.
7Economic impact
The redevelopment continues Chicago's growth as a tech hub, housing over 2,000 Google employees. The mixed-use approach creates jobs through retail tenants and construction while preserving a landmark. Public access maintains the building's economic role in the Loop. The project follows Google's 2022 purchase of the building, signaling long-term commitment to Chicago's tech ecosystem.
8Community legacy
Beyond physical transformation, the project establishes ongoing partnerships with local nonprofits focused on youth development. By combining workspace, transit access, public art, and education programs, Google aims to create a model for inclusive urban redevelopment. The 2028 opening will mark both architectural renewal and sustained investment in Chicago's next generation through art and education initiatives.
Original article: The Keyword — Google reimagines Chicago's Thompson Center as a mixed-use hub