Tied House / Schuba’s
Location
Chicago, IL
Project Type
Hospitality
Scope
Ground-Up Construction
Architect
Gensler
Interior Design
Gensler
The Opportunity
Audiotree, a Chicago-based media company and operator of iconic venues including Schubas Tavern and Lincoln Hall, set out to expand its footprint with a new dining concept connected to Schubas. Inspired by the building’s history as a Schlitz tied house, the project aimed to create a fine-dining restaurant that honors the character of the existing venue while introducing a distinct, contemporary experience.
How We Delivered
The project involved ground-up construction of a new 12,000-square-foot restaurant on a tight, urban site directly adjacent to the existing structure. A full basement and space constraints required close coordination with the design team, the City of Chicago, and neighboring properties throughout construction.
During preconstruction, Helios worked with the team to identify cost-effective structural solutions, including a high-capacity ground floor slab that allowed the site to be used for staging while reducing the need for more complex shoring. Digital coordination tools, including 3D laser scanning and BIM, were used to align structural, architectural, and finish elements and maintain design intent.
Complex design features required detailed coordination and custom fabrication. A second-story screen wall was developed to complement the masonry pattern of the existing building, supported by a concealed structural framework modeled and templated to ensure a clean visual result. Helios also collaborated closely with millwork and specialty fabricators to execute a custom ceiling system designed to match the textures of Schubas.
What Was Built
Tied House blends traditional materials with modern detailing, creating a space that feels connected to Schubas while establishing its own identity. The restaurant features layered masonry, custom millwork, and carefully integrated lighting elements, including a backlit screen wall that anchors the upper façade.
Inside, the space balances warmth and precision, with custom ceiling patterns, refined finishes, and a layout designed to support both dining and the broader venue experience. The result is a hospitality environment that extends the legacy of Schubas while introducing a new destination within Chicago’s music and dining scene.
Recognition
AIA Chicago Interior Architecture Award – Citation of Merit
AIA Chicago Design Excellence Awards (2019) – Distinguished Building Award
Chicago Building Congress Merit Awards (2020) – Finalist
Restaurant & Bar Design Awards (2020)