A Coming Together

This fit-out consolidates a Chicago advertising team studio into two floors, improving connectivity and, ironically, the sense of space

Downsizing a studio has its advantages from economy to connectivity. Pro-active interior design may actually enhance the sense of space even as the number of staff members stays the same and the square meterage drops.

Such was the case with the transformative fit-out of advertising firm Havas Worldwide’s Chicago studio. Havas wanted to reduce the floor space for this agency and tasked Gary Lee Partners (GLP) with finding a solution. Design principal David Grout says that after assessing Havas’ real estate options at various buildings, GLP recommended staying in the current building, giving up a floor, and redesigning the studio’s floor plan and aesthetic.