Amid a challenging office market, the historic 25 E. Washington in the Chicago Loop is rewriting expectations. With over 45,000 square feet of new and renewing leases in the first quarter alone, the Daniel Burnham-designed building boasts an impressive 85% occupancy, surpassing the occupancy rate of pre-1950 Loop office buildings by 30%.
Located steps from State Street, Millennium Park, and Michigan Avenue, the 20-story landmark is setting a new standard for Vintage Class A office buildings.
Owned and meticulously upgraded by Kroonenberg Groep and the Trump Group – unaffiliated with the Trump Organization – 25 E. Washington has been a focal point of investment for over four decades. Aspire Properties has managed and leased the building since 1996 and is spearheading a $13 million modernization initiative designed by geniant Eastlake Studio. Due for completion in September, the 15,000-square-foot, 7th floor amenity center features a 3,000 SF open-air courtyard, lounge, game room, top-tier conference center and elite fitness facility
“The ongoing transformation from doorstep to desktop sets us apart,” said Dan Shannon, Managing Principal at Aspire Properties. “Today’s tenants demand quality spaces, cutting-edge technology, and amenities that inspire employees to return to the office. At 25 E. Washington, we’re delivering that – honoring history while investing in the future.”
Recent leasing highlights include:
· Siteline renewing its 13,000-square-foot space.
· ATS Institute expanding by 10,000 square feet (adding to its existing 20,000 square feet).
· National Community Investment Fund relocating from LaSalle Street into over 4,600 square feet (represented by Craig Nadborne of Bradford Allen)
· Millennium Counseling Center signing a new 3,500-square-foot lease (represented by Victor SanMiguel of Bespoke CRE).
· Gertie Enterprises leasing 3,000 square feet of new space.
25 E. Washington’s leasing success reflects not just top-tier amenities and exceptional service but innovative solutions. When the School of the Art Institute of Chicago sought gallery and studio space with stable lighting, the windowless lower floors provided an ideal home – resulting in a long-term lease of 62,000 square feet.
