Demolition work is clearly evident at 100 West Randolph Street in The Loop, as the transformation of the Thompson Center for Google hits its stride. The ceremonial kickoff for the renovation took place earlier this week, but demolition work has been underway for a few weeks. Along with considerable progress at street level along the perimeter of the building, there’s also a gaping hole in the east facade of the Helmut Jahn classic in The Loop. Clark Construction is the general contractor tasked with redoing the office building so Google can move in upon rehab completion.
Formerly the home of Ronny’s Steakhouse at the corner of Lake and Clark. Photo by Daniel Schell.
Courtesy of Google’s Artist in Residence program, there are murals along Randolph and LaSalle Streets to liven up what would otherwise be very drab sidewalk canopies.
Mural by Mac Blackout under the sidewalk canopy along LaSalle Street. Photo by Daniel Schell
Thompson Center north façade along Randolph Street with a mural by Katie Chung. Photo by Daniel Schell
A renovation permit was issued by the City of Chicago on October 13, 2023. The estimated $6 million cost allows for various demolition of both the interior space, and the exterior façade. An observation window has been cut out near the corner of LaSalle and Randolph Street so people can get a peek at Clark Construction’s progress on the site.
Thompson Center construction. Photo by Daniel Schell
Thompson Center construction. Photo by Daniel Schell
Thompson Center construction. Photo by Daniel Schell
Thompson Center construction. Photo by Daniel Schell
The CTA Blue Line station beneath the Thompson Center remains open for commuters. The entrance mid-block on the north side of Lake Street is accessible, with a cutout in the sidewalk canopy allowing commuters to enter and exit. It’s like being in the Thompson Center, but you can’t get into the atrium.
Looking into the atrium from the CTA Blue Line entrance in the Thompson Center. Photo by Daniel Schell
There will be plenty of construction activity here for the foreseeable future. Work is expected to last into 2026 before Google moves in.
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So satisfying to see these photos revealing the skeleton of this iconic Jahn building. Just look at those ancient, beat-up I-beams. Thank you, Google and YIMBY!
Bittersweet to see the old salmon and blue panels being removed, but glad to see this building getting a new life
It’s sad to see this Azaming building get new transformation I really have enjoyed this building! Really hope that the changes will change much, can’t wait to see this Incredible building.
Amazing amazing architecture.
It’s all about transformation like the butterfly does