Reyes Beer HQ

Location
Chicago, IL

Project Type
Corporate Interiors

Scope
Adaptive Reuse & Interior Renovation

Architect
OKW

The Opportunity

Reyes Beer Division, the largest beer distributor in the United States, set out to create a new headquarters that reflects the scale of its operations and the culture behind its brands. The goal was to transform a former retail space into a workplace that supports daily operations while offering spaces for collaboration, hosting, and employee engagement.

How We Delivered

The project involved the full conversion of a 48,000-square-foot former retail store into a modern office environment. Work began with extensive demolition and reconfiguration of

the existing structure, including removal of a two-story escalator, modifications to the building shell, and structural work to support a new rooftop terrace.

Major building systems were replaced or upgraded, including a complete overhaul of the HVAC system and installation of new electrical infrastructure. A new elevator was added to improve circulation, and exterior improvements included updated landscape and hardscape elements.

Throughout construction, the team coordinated a wide range of architectural and MEP scopes, integrating energy-efficient systems and construction practices to support long-term performance of the building.

What Was Built

The finished headquarters supports 173 workstations alongside a range of amenity-driven spaces. A first-floor beer hall and lounge connects to a modern kitchen and pantry, creating a central hub for employees and guests.

On the second floor, a carefully detailed boardroom incorporates salvaged beer kegs within a glass wall, paired with an adjacent speakeasy-style space defined by a custom ceiling feature. A rooftop terrace, converted from two existing penthouses, provides additional space for gathering and events.

Throughout the space, design elements reference the brand in subtle and expressive ways, including a large LED installation near the main staircase inspired by the movement of bubbles in a glass of beer.