Google Unveiled New Thompson Center Renderings

The company revealed updated designs for the historic Chicago building as renovations continue.

Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Commercial

Bold vector editorial illustration of a curved glass and steel architectural structure, representing urban redevelopment and modern design. — Google has revealed updated architectural renderings for the redevelopment of the Thompson Center in Chicago, marking a major milestone in the tech giant's urban expansion plans. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should cities prioritize renovating historic landmarks over demolishing them for new development?

Google has shared new architectural renderings for the redevelopment of the iconic Thompson Center in Chicago. The project, which involves a massive overhaul of the 1985 postmodern landmark, is currently undergoing construction.

Why it matters

The project preserves a significant piece of architecture that state officials once proposed demolishing due to high maintenance and climate control costs. By transforming the site, Google is centralizing its Chicago operations for its workforce of over 2,000 employees.

The Thompson Center, completed in 1985, features a 17-story atrium and was purchased by The Prime Group in 2022. The upcoming renovated plaza will prominently display a 30-foot-tall sculpture titled Vector.

The players

Google

This global technology company manages a substantial workforce of over 2,000 employees in Chicago.

The Prime Group

This real estate development firm purchased the Thompson Center in 2022.

Architecture Plus Information

This architecture firm collaborated with Google to design the new plans for the building.

After School Matters

This nonprofit organization provides after-school programming and is contributing a commissioned piece to the atrium.

Bruce Rauner

The former Governor of Illinois proposed selling the Thompson Center in 2015 due to maintenance concerns.

The details

Architecture Plus Information collaborated with Google to design the redevelopment, which includes removing the original glass-and-metal exterior. Additionally, After School Matters will contribute a commissioned art piece to the atrium later this year.

The James R. Thompson Center was completed in 1985.
Governor Bruce Rauner proposed selling the building in 2015.
The building was sold to The Prime Group in 2022.
Renovations of the building began in May 2024.
Google announced the building redevelopment renderings on September 16, 2026.

Data Centers
Sept. 21
Chicago Mayor Regulated Data Center Operations
Commercial
Sept. 24
Codal Leased New Office at 200 South Wacker
Construction
Sept. 22
Chicago Committee Approved Foundry Park Subsidy

Culture Shift

This development reflects the broader trend of repurposing modernist landmarks to serve modern corporate needs instead of pursuing demolition. It updates the long-standing debate sparked by the 2015 proposal by Governor Bruce Rauner to sell the Thompson Center.

Local residents will see the transformation of a major downtown landmark into a functional tech campus, altering the streetscape of the Loop. The inclusion of new public art pieces and an updated plaza space provides a direct upgrade to the aesthetic experience of the city center.

The takeaway

The project demonstrates how historic architecture can be adapted to house modern corporate environments rather than being lost to demolition. Residents and visitors should look for the installation of the new public art pieces as the site nears its updated reopening.