When Uber decided to consolidate its brands under one roof in Chicago’s iconic Old Post Office, they sought to create a space that would not only accommodate their growing workforce but also inspire innovation and reflect their forward-thinking ethos. To help bring this vision to life, they turned to ChiLab Studio, a Chicago-based design and fabrication firm known for its unique blend of artisanal craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology.

ChiLab’s involvement in the Uber project truly showcases how our team worked with a global architecture firm and the client to create a space filled with grand architectural elements that seamlessly blend form and function.

A Historic Setting for a Modern Vision

The choice of the Old Post Office as Uber’s new Chicago home was no coincidence. This iconic building, with its rich history and powerful presence, provided the perfect canvas for Uber’s ambitious project. ChiLab Studio, having previously contributed to the Knoll Showroom in Chicago’s West Loop, was uniquely positioned to understand and honor the structure’s heritage while pushing the boundaries of modern design.

“We were thrilled to see this historic building being revitalized,” says Ben Stagl (founder and co-director @ ChiLab) “It had been abandoned ever since the year before I first moved to Chicago.  The last thing I think that had happened there officially was the filming of The Dark Knight, where it had its windows blown out for the big Joker escape scene.”

Overcoming Unprecedented Challenges

Just as ChiLab was gearing up to start work on the Uber project, the unthinkable happened: the COVID-19 pandemic struck, putting the entire project on hold for a year. When work finally resumed, ChiLab faced a compressed timeline and unprecedented supply chain challenges.

“Suddenly, the project was back on, and we had to recalibrate to complete in a post-Covid world,” recalls Ally Reza (co-director @ ChiLab.) “But challenges like these have a way of pushing us to do our very best work.”

The Grand Spiral Staircase: A Feat of Engineering and Artistry

One of the most striking features of the Uber office is the grand spiral staircase that connects the lower and upper floors of the space. This architectural centerpiece presented unique challenges that pushed ChiLab’s capabilities to new heights.

The staircase, a sweeping helix of steel and reclaimed wood, required precision engineering to create its floating appearance. “We had to develop a custom Z clip connection system that allowed for minute adjustments during installation,” explains James Riviello, ChiLab’s installation team coordinator.. “This ensured we could achieve alignment of each element, despite the inconsistencies in the century-old building’s structure.”

The result is a stunning piece that not only serves as a functional connector between floors but also as a sculptural element that embodies Uber’s innovative spirit.

Parametric Feature Wall in Cast Aluminum.

Another standout piece is the monumental feature wall in the office’s main atrium. Inspired by the flow of data in Uber’s digital ecosystem, this installation combines CNC-milled aluminum panels with integrated LED lighting to create a dynamic, ever-changing display.

“We wanted to create something that would visually represent Uber’s role in modern transportation and logistics,” says Stagl. “The feature wall acts as both a functional wayfinding element and an interactive piece of art.”

The wall’s design required intense collaboration between ChiLab’s designers, engineers, and fabricators. Lead by Bo Rodda, the team developed a custom algorithm to translate data flows into visual patterns, which were then translated into physical form through 3D printed sand mold technology.

Throughout the project, a strong emphasis was placed on creating a tangible link between the city’s past and its future.

The Uber project marks another milestone for ChiLab Studio. It showcases the team’s ability to work seamlessly with global architecture firms, navigate complex projects, and deliver innovative solutions even in the face of unprecedented challenges.

As Uber settles into its new Chicago home, the impact of ChiLab’s work is clear. From the grand spiral staircase to the dynamic feature wall, each element contributes to a space that truly reflects Uber’s position at the forefront of technology and innovation.

Links

https://www.uber.com/blog/chicago-office/

https://frameweb.com/article/work/amenity-spaces-build-comfort-productivity-at-ubers-chicago-office

Uber opens new office in Old Post Office, making Chicago the center of growth plans for its surging freight business