What It Took to Convert an Old Chicago Sears into Modern Retail and Residential

Lead designer and MG2 principal Jooyeol Oh talked with C+CT contributing editor Joel Groover about 6 Corners Lofts, a transformed historic Chicago Sears building that is now a mixed-use development.

MG2’s Community Environments team carefully preserved the building’s art deco character while introducing contemporary elements like floor-to-ceiling windows and a new top floor with luxury amenities.

“We punched floor-to-ceiling windows and added balconies and terraces. This allowed us to modernize the old Sears retail store and warehouse to a residential use while preserving its art deco character. To expand the number of residential units, we added a whole new 31-unit wing that complements the look and feel of its counterpart.”

Architecture Firms See Billings Change – MG2 Ranked #18 in Architectural Firms list for 2024

So excited to see that The Orange County Business Journal has ranked MG2 #18 in its Architectural Firms list for 2024.

“The firm has seen an uptick in retail, industrial, and affordable housing markets, according to chief executive officer Mitch Smith. ‘The growth in all three of these sectors has had a substantial impact on architectural billings in our Irvine office, reflecting the adaptability and agility of our team,’ Smith said.”

The Orange County Business Journal ranked MG2 #18 in Architectural Firms list for 2024

So excited to see that The Orange County Business Journal has ranked MG2 in the top 20 of its Architectural Firms list for 2024.

Adaptive reuse of a Sears store becomes luxury mixed-use housing

After serving 80 years as a retail space, 6 Corners Lofts is revitalizing the Chicago area as an adaptive reuse, mixed-use development.

我们的团队

Natalie Hyde, ncidq, well ap

副董事

For Natalie Hyde—a sustainably-minded, award-winning designer—the greatest joy of crafting interior spaces is fostering interactions and discovery throughout a space, bringing joy and comfort to all who experience them. With almost two decades of expertise and an NCIDQ Certification under her belt, she specializes in designing memorable residential and hospitality projects that immerse residents and guests alike, and offer a destination-worthy space for the surrounding community.

The Best Commercial Architects in Irvine, California

We’re excited to be named one of The Best Commercial Architects in Irvine, CA by Los Angeles Architects.

Spearheaded by award-winning Managing Principal Meghana Joshi, AIA, NOMA, the company’s leadership champions a purpose-driven work culture, fostering meaningful connections between employees, clients, and the communities they serve. In addition to overseeing regional retail, mixed-use, and industrial markets, Meghana is responsible for expanding the firm’s reach, focusing on retail banking, as well as senior living and affordable housing in California.

MG2 is a trailblazer, continuously evolving and adapting to the changing landscape, earning accolades from Fast CompanyArchitizer, and Interior Design Magazine as well as feature articles in Building Design + ConstructionForbesDevelopment MagazineChain Store Age, and Architectural Record.

Cost-effective Ways to Create an Outdoor Oasis in Your Own Backyard

MG2’s Senior Interior Designer, Natalie Hyde, shared her insights on maximizing outdoor living space with Amber Katz from The Seattle Times.

《旅游休闲》杂志将萨利什旅馆及水疗中心评为读者最喜爱的西部 15 家度假村之一

This year Travel and Leisure named the Salish Lodge and Spa one of Readers’ 15 Favorite Resorts in the West. The resort was judged on its rooms, location, services, food, and value and more than 886,000 individuals voted.

“The setting of Salish Lodge & Spa is second to none. It’s perched directly above the 268-foot Snoqualmie Falls, one of the state’s most popular attractions. Beyond its magnificent backdrop — which includes thick, green forest land and mountain peaks — the property has an award-winning spa and a restaurant with big picture windows overlooking the falls and the river below it.”

社区环境

Mountlake Village

Mountlake Village is a mixed-use development that meets the needs of a diverse, active, and growing population. The development includes residential and retail space to invite the community in. Amenities include a coworking space, a ground-floor plaza, resident lounges, a gym, a yoga studio, a dog grooming facility, a dog run, and a rooftop terrace.


  • 项目细节

  • 地点 Mountlake Terrace, WA
  • 客户 Gracorp
  • 市场分类 ,
  • 规模 400,000 SF; 280,000 SF residential; 7,000 SF commercial; 302 units
  • 设计服务
社区环境

The Manning

Located within the master planned Barkley Village development, The Manning is a new 171-unit residential complex. The building includes a gym amenity space and a large commercial space on the ground floor. Building on the master plan’s goals for a true urban village, the development seeks to draw in the community and add vibrancy to the area. Residents have direct access to dining, shopping, and entertainment options from a farmer’s market to a movie theater.


  • 项目细节

  • 地点 Bellingham, WA
  • 客户 Talbot Group
  • 市场分类 ,
  • 规模 290,000 Total SF; 3,000 SF Commercial; 171 Units
  • 设计服务
  • 资质认证 Green Globes Certified
社区环境

Beltline Block

Beltline is a vibrant neighborhood comprised of rich history, modern luxury, and a spirited community with a personality all its own. The development holistically reflects and celebrates the historical character of the district while weaving in modern sophistication. Beltline Block includes a multi-phase mix of residential and commercial uses including four towers, each delivered in a separate phase.


MG2 Ranked #4 in Architecture and #5 in Multi-unit Residential in ENR Northwest 2024 Top Design Firms

MG2 has been ranked #4 in architecture and #5 in multi-unit residential in ENR Northwest’s 2024 Top Design Firms.

MG2 Ranked #3 in Retail in ENR California 2024 Top Design Firms

We’re thrilled to be ranked #3 in Retail for ENR California’s Top Design Firms 2024. Meghana Joshi leads our Irvine office, which spearheads our California operations and elevates projects across the region.

社区环境

风之天使房车度假村和娱乐空间

位于华盛顿州阿灵顿的“风之天使”房车度假村的会所设计灵感源自国家公园的豪华别墅。一个房车大小的门廊是通往度假村的大门,将宾客与入口直接连接,带来无缝衔接的入住体验。度假村提供高雅的露营环境,这正是当今旅行者所追求的。

建筑设计的核心在于室内外的衔接,落地窗的设计更显其重要性。大厅拥有人字形屋顶、挑高天花板和大型壁炉,可供聚会。外立面采用的烧杉板烧木,以及当地制造的雪松木天花板和镶板,在室内也得到了延续。一个大型公共火坑,令人联想起篝火,吸引着宾客在此相聚交流,并鼓励即兴对话。S'Klallam 艺术家 Brian Perry 创作的传统艺术作品遍布整个酒店。聚会室设有休息区,配备桌上足球和台球桌,并享有户外景观,是休闲聊天的理想场所。

俱乐部会所之外是度假村的配套设施,包括182个房车停车位、8个蒙古包、带淋浴和洗衣设施的酒店级卫生间、野餐和烧烤棚、一个不拴狗绳的狗狗公园、一条步道、9个篝火坑、匹克球场、一个迷你高尔夫球场和一个儿童游乐场。远处是一座观景亭,可以俯瞰山谷和贝克山的景色。俱乐部会所旨在为整个房车度假村提供一个聚会和娱乐场所,并融入该地区的自然奇观。


社区环境

萨利希小屋翻新

休息与放松的可持续融合

著名的 Salish Lodge & Spa 酒店因其卓越的品质而受到康泰纳仕的认可,是一家著名的酒店和水疗中心,坐落在太平洋西北部俯瞰斯诺夸米瀑布的悬崖之上。

2017年,MG2受命翻新水疗中心,同时保留其西北特色。这项工作包括翻新室内外空间,包括客用浴室,并更新室内装饰和外立面。MG2还设计了水疗中心的室内设计,将日式风格与当地美学完美融合,以雪松木色调、舒缓的桉树香氛和天然石材营造出宁静的氛围,为宾客带来专注于放松身心、焕发活力的高端体验。

2023年,MG2进一步提升了酒店的整体设施,包括全新的大堂酒吧、方便共享出行的门廊以及定制的豪华木质接待台。这些新增设施使酒店更加现代化,简化了运营流程,并提升了整体宾客体验。



社区环境

Riverfront Brewery Concept

Nestled within the vibrant Washington neighborhood, the Riverfront Brewery harmoniously merges brewing operations with a captivating taproom and restaurant concept, accompanied by sprawling outdoor patios and a scenic rooftop deck. Positioned prominently, it serves as a gateway into the district, anchoring the multiple residential buildings to the North. As part of the larger redevelopment and master planning efforts, Riverfront Brewery contributes to the district’s vision of a mixed-use environment, seamlessly blending residential, retail, and dining options.


  • 项目细节

  • 地点 华盛顿州
  • 客户 保密
  • 市场分类
  • 规模 6,500 SF brewery operations; 4,000 SF taproom; 2,300 SF patios/roof deck
  • 设计服务
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十字路口的 Edgeworks 攀岩和健身中心

As part of the Crossroads master plan, MG2 worked with ROIC and Edgeworks to design a new climbing gym. Edgeworks currently has three locations and offers fitness classes designed to complement a climbing routine. The gym, which includes a 10k SF addition to the existing 30k SF space, was completed in 2024. MG2 worked on the core and shell design and handled all phases of the project, from design through construction administration. This full-service project also featured a 45-foot interior mass filled with climbing walls, a new front desk and check-in area, public social spaces, a yoga room, new restrooms, and the renovation of existing restrooms, providing a comprehensive solution for the client.


社区环境

熨斗十字路口

Flatiron Crossing is undergoing a transformation into a thriving outdoor park experience with the intent to highlight the Flatiron Mountain namesake. A mix of uses will include residential, F&B, entertainment, and future office all within a 9-acre nature park space. The architecture blends seamlessly with the park to create a truly integrated experience. Macerich’s commitment to sustainability is showcased with the use of mass timber and CLT in one of the signature buildings.


MG2 featured in Architectural Record’s Top 300 U.S. Architecture Firms of 2024

We’re excited to be included among the Top 300 U.S. Architecture Firms of 2024.

我们的团队

Nick Batelli

副董事

Nick is a senior architectural designer who focuses on finding unique solutions to challenges that may not be immediately apparent in a project. His results-oriented and open-minded approach fosters creativity, mentorship, teamwork, and collaborative ideas. Nick’s ability to connect with clients easily helps build successful relationships, develop a deep understanding of their needs, and push them to explore new programs and find unique design concepts. With Nick on board, clients can expect a smooth and successful project.

MG2 Named One of the Largest Architecture Firms in Greater Washington D.C.

We’re excited to see MG2 named of the Largest Architecture Firms in Greater Washington D.C. metro-area.

MG2 Acquires Portland, Oregon-based Studio C Architecture

Architects Brian Bennett and Jim Walker join MG2 as Principals

SEATTLE, WA—May 15, 2024—Global architecture and design firm MG2 has announced its acquisition of the Portland, Oregon-based firm Studio C Architecture. Studio C is known for its work in multifamily residential design and has specialized in affordable housing. Now backed by the additional resources that a large firm provides, the office will have the capacity and reach to do more than they could have in the past. For Principals Brian Bennett AIA, NCARB, LEED AP and Jim Walker AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, this new alignment is a coming home of sorts, as both principals grew their careers at MG2.

“We are excited to welcome Jim and Brian to MG2,” says Mitch Smith, MG2 CEO and Chairman of the Board. “Their strength in project design, understanding of building systems and experience in complex problem-solving will be invaluable. Their expertise, combined with their passion for affordable housing, is a perfect complement to our firm.”

Jim founded Studio C Architecture in 2007 with the vision that all projects are a reflection of the aspirations of the community in which they are built. Brian joined the firm in 2012 and together they have focused on the residential market with particular expertise in affordable housing. Recent projects include award-winning Deskins Commons in Newberg, OR, Deer Creek Village in Roseburg, OR, and Summit Gardens in Medford, OR, which is now under construction. Their passion for affordable housing stems from their understanding of the profound need and transformative impact that stable housing can bring to families, and both have been active in Habitat for Humanity.

“By joining MG2, we have the opportunity to do more, for more people, and in a shorter period of time,” says Jim. “This has always been my vision and my goal—to serve the community and provide affordable housing to people in need.”

“We are excited to work with a firm—that we know first-hand from past experience—has the design skills, abilities and expertise of MG2 as well as a devotion to engaging with the community and making an impact,” says Brian.

With 30+ years in architecture, Jim’s strength in project and team leadership is grounded in collaboration, diversity of thought, and a genuine curiosity for innovative problem-solving approaches. Jim’s mission of providing quality affordable housing has been a driving force, stemming from a profound recognition of the critical need and the societal issues it impacts. Jim sits on the Board of Directors for Portland’s historic Hollywood Theatre. He earned a Bachelor of Architecture and a Bachelor of Environmental Design from North Dakota State University.

Throughout his career, Brian has worked on a wide array of projects, ranging from small retail tenant improvements to large high-rise residential developments. This breadth of experience has provided him with direct exposure to the unique technical demands of various building structural types and building systems. Brian earned a Bachelor of Architectural Studies from the University of Washington and a Master of Architecture from the University of Oregon.

The Studio C office in Portland will become MG2’s seventh location after Seattle, New York, Washington D.C., Minneapolis, Irvine, and Shanghai.

ABOUT MG2
Guided by our vision to create transformative experiences that foster and elevate healthy communities, MG2 has been delivering award-winning projects and programs for over 50 years. We partner with some of the world’s most recognizable companies and brands to bring exceptional design solutions to life through full architectural, strategic planning, cost management, interior design, brand strategy, and program consulting services. Our seven offices in the U.S. and China—Seattle, Portland, New York, Washington D.C., Minneapolis, Irvine, and Shanghai—integrate building performance and social responsibility into every project. At MG2, our greatest strength lies in our people, our clients, and our commitment to helping them succeed. We are purpose-driven by nature, data-driven by design. www.mg2.com

我们的团队

Jim Walker, 友邦保险

董事

Bringing over two decades of experience in affordable housing and a variety of other project types, Jim’s strength in project and team leadership is grounded in collaboration, diversity of thought, and a genuine curiosity for innovative problem-solving approaches. Jim spearheads the team’s due diligence, land use entitlements initiatives, and sustainable design methodology. His passion for affordable housing stems from his understanding of the profound need and transformative impact that stable housing can bring to families.

我们的团队

Brian Bennett, 友邦保险

董事

Throughout his career, Brian has worked on a wide array of projects, ranging from small retail tenant improvements to large high-rise residential developments. This breadth of experience has provided him with direct exposure to the unique technical demands of various building structural types and building systems. His commitment to the mission of providing quality affordable housing has been a driving force, stemming from a profound recognition of the critical need and the societal issues it impacts. For Brian, engaging in affordable housing work represents an opportunity to leverage his skills and expertise to serve others and enhance the quality of communities for all.