Reimagining The Bell: A Hub for Collaboration and Connection
Ste Marie, a Canadian studio, has reimagined the interiors of The Bell, a 1960s tower in Chicago’s Loop, to evoke the glamour and confidence of the mid-century office. The 32-storey building, originally constructed in 1966 as the headquarters of the Illinois Bell Telephone Company, has undergone a renovation to welcome new office tenants.
“The project was approached as a continuous interior landscape, designed to connect lobby, restaurant, lounges, coworking, wellness, and terraces into a single narrative that extends from street to skyline,” said Craig Stanghetta, Principal and Creative Director, Ste Marie.
The renovation spans over 100,000 square feet of amenity interiors, incorporating elements of mid-century modernism. The design is amplified through reflective metals, statement lighting, and custom large-scale artworks influenced by the golden age of American advertising. Geometric furniture and patterns reference the work of Italian designers such as Gio Ponti and Ettore Sottsass.
The building’s original terrazzo flooring and Verde Guatemala marble are combined with mid-century-style art, textiles, and rugs in the street-level lobby. A 200-seat bistro and bar, Solette, connects the lobby and public realm, featuring polished brass and reflective metal accents.
Lounges, co-working areas, and meeting spaces are integrated across the tower’s office floors, along with library and games rooms that reference the social character of the mid-century office. Facilities, including sports courts and wellness and fitness studios, are lined with wood and travertine, continuing the interior style.The tower’s upper floors are occupied by the multi-level Clubhouse, linked by an undulating marble staircase. Interior lounge and bar areas connect to landscaped cabanas and terraces overlooking the Chicago skyline.
“The Bell is an endeavour of cultural revival, a reimaging of Chicago’s corporate landscape to integrate hospitality with a focus on connection, collaboration, restoration, and play,” said Stanghetta.
Image Courtesy: Dezeen
