Photos Reveal New Facade of Google's Thompson Center in Chicago
Recent images from August 2026 showcase the nearly finished exterior of Chicago's Thompson Center, which is currently being renovated by the architectural firm Jahn. Constructed in the 1980s and originally designed by Helmut Jahn, the building honors former Illinois governor James R. Thompson. Following a proposed sale in 2015, it was at risk of demolition. In 2022, Alphabet Inc. purchased the site to transform it into Google's Chicago headquarters, incorporating office space on the upper levels and retail on the lower levels. The original glass has been upgraded to a triple-glazed curtain wall for enhanced environmental efficiency. The building will retain the Thompson Center name, with expected completion in 2027. Helmut Jahn passed away in 2021. Photos by Tom Ravenscroft.
Key facts
- Photographs taken earlier this month show a largely complete new facade for Chicago's Thompson Center.
- The renovation is being carried out by architecture studio Jahn for Google.
- The building was originally designed in the 1980s by Jahn founder Helmut Jahn.
- It was considered one of the most significant pieces of postmodern architecture in the USA.
- The building faced demolition after plans to sell it were made public in 2015.
- In 2022, the building was sold to Alphabet Inc., Google's parent company.
- The original patterned glass has been replaced by a triple-glazed curtain wall to improve environmental performance.
- The renovation is planned for completion in 2027, with the name changed to the Thompson Center.
Entities
Artists
- Helmut Jahn
- Tom Ravenscroft
- James R. Thompson
Institutions
- Jahn
- Alphabet Inc.
- Illinois state government
Locations
- Chicago
- Illinois
- United States
Sources
- Dezeen —