Reimagining a Modern Space Within Chicago's Iconic Mies van der Rohe Building
Celebrating more than a century of heritage as a trusted advisor, Taft Stettinius & Hollister, LLP (Taft) has built a reputation as both a venerable institution and a progressive, modern law firm. When the company found itself out of space in its Chicago office, it turned to HED to plan and design an expansion within one of the city’s most iconic addresses, the Mies van der Rohe building.
The challenge was to honor the firm’s legacy while creating a workplace that reflects its client-first culture, global leadership, and forward-looking brand.
At the core of the renovation is a new client experience center designed to frame sweeping views of the Chicago River, Michigan Avenue, and Lake Michigan.
More than a reception area, this space was conceived as a flexible venue for hosting everything from depositions to social gatherings to presentations by political figures. A sculptural stone and metal bar, connected to a catering pantry, anchors the hospitality program, while a lounge outfitted with hidden technology and mobile furniture adapts to the occasion.
The arrival sequence begins with a generous reception area, complete with a coffee bar, ample seating, and a backlit ceiling whose design draws inspiration from the movement of water.
Throughout, subtle branding elements reinforce Taft’s identity. The firm’s signature “slash” informed both the angled flooring pattern and the canted walnut paneling, which nods to heritage while presenting a modern face.
Equally important was creating a workplace that celebrates Taft’s strong culture and provides the right balance of privacy, transparency, and connection. To unify three consecutive floors, HED cut a new opening in the floor slab and reimagined the existing staircase as a sleek, modern centerpiece. Curved glass railings, walnut stringers, and black metal accents echo the exterior of the building, while a ten-foot custom light fixture spirals through the stair as a contemporary interpretation of a chandelier. The stair has become the heart of the office, bringing together practice groups that were once separated by floor.
“We are so proud of our Chicago office and appreciate all the work, planning, vision, and long hours involved to transform our Chicago space. It is truly a reflection of our brand and is a homerun in my mind.”
The workspace itself was redesigned to provide every attorney with a private office while maintaining openness and daylight. Demolishing enclosed interior rooms allowed for full-glass office fronts, connecting colleagues to one another and drawing borrowed light deeper into the plan. Additional spaces, including a new employee café with biophilic elements, offer staff areas for gathering, celebrating, and recharging.
The transformation reflects Taft’s evolution from a traditional law office to a modern, flexible environment that supports its client-first approach and progressive culture. Recognized with the 2024 Chicago Building Congress Interior Design of the Year Merit Award, the project demonstrates how thoughtful design can honor history while positioning a firm for the future.
