The Uber Grand Spiral Stair: A Modern Marvel in Historical Context

In the heart of Chicago's Old Post Office, now home to Uber Freight's headquarters, ChiLab Studio has created a striking architectural centerpiece that pays homage to the building's rich history while boldly stepping into the future. The Grand Spiral Stair is more than a means of vertical circulation; it's a testament to the power of thoughtful design in preserving heritage while fostering innovation.

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Grand Spiral Stair:

  • 16-foot diameter centerpiece

  • Inspired by the building's historical spiral mail chutes

  • Finished with a custom blue-toned patina resembling oil-rubbed bronze

  • Features an infinity mirror at the top for an illusion of endlessness

  1. Collaboration:

    • Work produced in collaboration with Gensler Chicago

    • Combined ChiLab's innovative fabrication with Gensler's architectural expertise

  2. Significance:

    • Merges art, technology, and architecture

    • Symbolizes Uber Freight's mission and global connectivity

Echoes of the Past

The Grand Spiral Stair draws inspiration from the building's original mail chutes, once vital arteries in the bustling postal system. The stair's helical form mimics the vertical flow of mail, reimagined for the movement of people and ideas in today's dynamic workplace.

Preserving History, Embracing Modernity

  1. Utilized advanced 3D modeling to ensure the stair's design complemented the existing architecture

  2. Incorporated materials and finishes that blend seamlessly with the building's original elements

  3. Employed state-of-the-art engineering to create a structure that appears to float within the space, minimizing impact on the historic fabric of the building.

Design and Execution

Our team leveraged advanced 3D modeling and CNC fabrication to pre-assemble major components off-site. This approach minimized on-site disruption and ensured a perfect fit.

We developed a custom connection system that allowed for minute adjustments during installation, ensuring flawless alignment of each element.

A Bridge Between Eras

The Grand Spiral Stair serves as a physical and metaphorical link between the building's past and present. It encourages Uber Freight employees to reflect on the site's history of connectivity and logistics while inspiring future innovations in these fields. As users ascend and descend, they experience a journey through time as they keep the people and products of our world in motion.

Impact and Legacy

By seamlessly integrating these historical references with contemporary design, the Grand Spiral Stair has become more than an architectural element – It stands as a symbol of Uber Freight's commitment to innovation rooted in a deep respect for history and tradition.

This Grand Spiral Stair is more than a means of vertical circulation; it's a focal point that defines the space. It encourages movement, fosters chance encounters, and serves as a daily reminder of the power of innovative design.