![](https://www.elkus-manfredi.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/01_HERO_CRAChicago_ReceptionDesk_©AndrewBordwin.jpg)
Project Description
- Transformed the consulting firm’s existing 35,620-sf office into a welcoming, daylight-filled, productive environment with a balance of private workspaces and collaborative gathering areas.
- Adapted CRA’s standardized real estate metrics developed by Elkus Manfredi and implemented for other CRA office redesigns in Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C.
- Created a visually-arresting staircase in the heart of the office that physically and emotionally connects the two floors and reflects light deep into the office.
- Kindled collegiality and collaboration among staff by co-locating junior and senior colleagues in work neighborhoods and relocating the office’s café to staircase’s base.
Photographer: © Andrew Bordwin
![](https://www.elkus-manfredi.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/02a_LG_CRAChicago_ReceptionSeating_©AndrewBordwin.jpg)
![](https://www.elkus-manfredi.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/02b_LG_CRAChicago_Stair_©AndrewBordwin.jpg)
![coworkers having casual meeting in office cafe](https://www.elkus-manfredi.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/03a_SM_CRAChicago_Cafe_©AndrewBordwin.jpg)
![coworkers having a conversation walking down open and airy office stairs](https://www.elkus-manfredi.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/03b_SM_CRA-Chicago_StairToCafe_©AndrewBordwin.jpg)
![Chicago skyline through open office stairs and office cafe](https://www.elkus-manfredi.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/03c_SM_CRAChicago_CafeStair_©AndrewBordwin.jpg)
![employees sit by window in office cafe](https://www.elkus-manfredi.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CRACHI_i17_CafeWindowSeatingWView_p_3373-AB.jpg)
![blue writable wall in office area](https://www.elkus-manfredi.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/03d_SM_CRAChicago_WorkstationsBlueGlass_©AndrewBordwin.jpg)