The 333 West Wacker building is a post-modern office tower well-known for its distinctive green glass façade that curves along the Chicago River. This 1983 structure has two separate entry lobbies connected by three elevator lobbies. Pre-renovation, the lobby had dark ceilings, walls, and floors. Spaces felt dim and imbalanced - particularly when compared to the bright, daylit windows beyond. The primary goal of the renovation was to transform the lobbies of this timeless classic into a bright, inviting entry.
Schuler Shook, Perkins+Will and the owner worked together to identify new fixture locations and types that respond better to the dark stone of the lobby. The new lobby lighting features compact fluorescent downlights that bathe the walls with light. Wall panels are polished, so fixtures have regressed lamps in order to minimize reflections in the panels. Floor and ceiling tiles are now white to increase overall light levels and the perception of brightness.