A batch of photographs released by Goettsch Partners shows off the sleek exterior and interiors of their newly built North American headquarters for Swiss-based Zurich Insurance Group. The state-of-the-art complex in Schaumburg, Illinois, was officially completed on September 28 with a ceremonial ribbon cutting. Nearly 3,000 employees and contractors will occupy the 783,800-square-foot building, which has put communication, collaboration, and wellness at the forefront of its design.

Elongated stacked blocks form the building's design, image courtesy of Steinkamp Photograph

The structure consists of three primary blocks that are offset and stacked, creating a unique set of spaces for collaboration while opening up views, optimizing solar orientation, and maximizing programmatic flexibility. The top block is positioned 11 storeys from the ground with a cantilever pointing towards Chicago. This crowning element acts as a visual marker along the interstate that also speaks to the strength, stability and future of the company. 

The cantilevered levels of Zurich's North American headquarters, image courtesy of Steinkamp Photography

"The building defines a bold new image for Zurich," said Paul De Santis, LEED AP, Goettsch Partners' principal and lead designer for the project. "The building’s open nature — inside and out — allows employees to interact and engage with each other in ways that were never possible in their previous facility." Certified LEED Platinum, the complex is a tangible symbol of Zurich's commitment to environmental stewardship. A system of perimeter sunshades limits solar heat gain, with floor-to-ceiling glass still ensuring an abundant supply of natural light. 

Exterior cladding reflects the sky, image courtesy of Steinkamp Photography

"This building is a showcase of all we are at Zurich: its excellence in design, its focus on sustainability, and its reflection of our employees," said Mike Foley, chief executive officer for Zurich North America. "Zurich’s environmental commitment as a company is what made the LEED Platinum achievement possible," added Joseph Dolinar, AIA, Goettsch's partner-in-charge for the project. "You simply cannot reach this level of sustainable design without support at the highest levels."

Inside the airy spaces of the building, image courtesy of Steinkamp Photography