With an anchor tenant’s departure, Harlem Irving Companies recognized an opportunity to revitalize this iconic Chicago neighborhood shopping center and create a new central atrium. Creating a 21st-century re-interpretation of the existing mall, the design establishes a visible and intuitive new entrance while connecting various levels within the atrium and providing increased visibility to new stores.

A perforated metal panel ceiling at the new entry required detailed coordination with the pre-existing structural conditions to ensure uniform illumination of the backlit RGBW lighting. Architectural ceiling and wall coves, designed to integrate with the pre-fab ceiling system for quick installation, flow throughout the space. The integrated cove lighting yields a balanced visual connection between each level, aids in wayfinding, and creates a fresh update that complements the indirect lighting in adjacent retail areas.

A new low-voltage lighting control system is programmed to accommodate early-morning mall walkers, nighttime cleaning staff, holiday schedules, and preset color selections.