**Vintage Chicago Office Building Undergoes Modernization Revamp**
Amid a challenging office market, the historic 25 E. Washington building in Chicago’s Loop is standing out as a prime example of the “flight-to-quality” trend. Tenants are increasingly drawn to upgraded buildings offering top-tier amenities alongside architectural charm—and 25 E. Washington delivers both.
Designed by renowned architect Daniel Burnham, the building has seen over 45,000 square feet of new and renewed leases in the first quarter of the year alone. Now 85% occupied, it significantly outpaces the average occupancy rate for pre-1950 office buildings in the Loop by approximately 30%.
The property is owned and upgraded by Kroonenberg Groep in partnership with the Trump Group. Since 1996, Aspire Properties has managed and leased the asset and is currently leading a $13 million modernization project in collaboration with design firm Eastlake Studio. Plans include a new 15,000-square-foot amenity center featuring a 3,000-square-foot open-air courtyard, lounge, game room, conference center, and fitness facility.
Recent leasing activity includes Siteline renewing its 13,000-square-foot lease, ATS Institute expanding by 10,000 square feet, and Gertie Enterprises securing 3,000 square feet of new space. Additionally, the National Community Investment Fund has relocated from LaSalle Street—leasing over 4,600 square feet in a deal represented by Craig Nadborne of Bradford Allen. Millennium Counseling Center has also inked a new 3,500-square-foot lease, represented by Victor SanMiguel of Bespoke CRE.
Industry professionals can further engage with market leaders at the upcoming Connect Midwest Multifamily Conference, set for June 4, 2025, at The Midland Hotel in Chicago. Highlights of the event include the Lifetime Achievement Award presentation and a keynote interview with Greg Mutz, Chairman & CEO of Amli Residential Partners, LLC, conducted by Fred Schreiber, Chief Operating Officer.
Register today to network with peers and gain insights into the evolving commercial real estate landscape.
