The Center for Care & Discovery Food Hall renovation consists of the redesign of a hospital lobby and food services space on the University of Chicago’s Medical Center campus. A series of terrazzo tile-clad curvilinear countertop and wainscotting elements wrap three distinct food retailers in a unifying gesture across the food hall space. White oak board-and-batten paneling brings rhythm, texture, and natural warmth to the space while a collection of planters interject greenery into an otherwise clinical environment.
The new food hall accommodates seating for approximately 150 people in a diverse collection of furniture, including built-in banquettes, high top tables, custom millwork benches and soft lounge areas. The project seeks to create an inviting and naturally warm space as a respite from the daily demands of the hospital facility.
Location: Chicago, IL
Client: Health Hospitality Partners (HHP), University of Chicago Center for Care and Discovery
Year: 2023-24
Type: Hospitality, Healthcare
Size: 8,500 SF
Status: Built
Team: DAAM (Executive Architect), Figure (Design Consultant), ACGI (MEPF Engineer), Bowa Construction (Contractor), James Leng (Photography)
Press: Chicago Food Magazine