Silver Room Design Lab

Silver Room Design Lab is a hybrid retail and exhibition space that offers a curated selection of art, clothing, and unique objects from makers around Chicago and beyond. Located in an upscale mall in Chicago’s Gold Coast, the concept store is an unexpected neighborhood destination that challenges notions of traditional retail. Its design reflects an ethos of community and experimentation, flexing to host performances and artist talks from members of Chicago’s vibrant cultural scene.

At the heart of the space, a movable display frames views of the merchandise, while doubling as a photo backdrop at events. Drawing on the idea of a laboratory, a tubular ceiling installation represents the deep network of creatives brought together by the Silver Room, a longstanding institution in Hyde Park, now continued through the new downtown Design Lab.

Gensler brought together brand, strategy, retail, product, and hospitality design on the storefront and interior, working closely with Silver Room’s founder on its aesthetic direction. The team also led brand identity, developing Silver Room Design Lab’s name, marketing collateral, uniforms, and shopping bags.