SCB was retained to provide full architectural and interior design services for the project, as well as sustainable design services for the LEED Platinum facility. The one-acre site is prominently located on the Chicago River, which provided a challenge for the design team. The project required the demolition of an existing single-story manufacturing facility and a rezoning of the property from M2, or light industrial, which limited the amount of office space that could be developed on the site. SCB’s design team envisioned an iconic and transparent building with an entry portal that provides a strong visual connection to the neighborhood and allows for an abundance of natural light to the interior. The building includes four levels of office space with a mechanical penthouse and a rooftop garden. The rooftop garden contains a fully landscaped environment of shrubs and small trees, as well as private seating clusters. It has become a welcoming retreat for WMS employees replete with views of the adjacent Chicago River.

The two-story lobby’s neutral coloring in the wood paneling, exposed brick walls, and grey carpeting are accented by the neon-colored furniture and wall decor. The splashes of color found throughout the office are reminiscent of the flashing lights in the games the company manufactures. The exposed ceilings are punctuated with stainless steel features and cobalt glass windows. The flat video screens, contemporary seating, and glass-enclosed basketball court on the first floor allows the employees some reprieve from their hectic work days.