Wintrust Arena in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood is a new 285,000 square-foot venue that doubles as an arena for DePaul University basketball in addition to being utilized for concerts, special events, and general sessions for McCormick Place conventions. The $155-million project is part of a redevelopment plan to transform the surrounding neighborhood into a vibrant entertainment district with new dining and entertainment venues, hotels and streetscapes.

Primera provided LEED fundamental and enhanced commissioning services for the new venue. Located at the prominent corner of Cermak and Indiana, the event center features a 10,500-seat arena, 22 suites, club seating, team and support services, broadcast facilities, and food and beverage concessions. The new building is wrapped in glass and other translucent materials to allow daylight to fill the interior space and provide views of the surrounding community.

Primera was concurrently tasked with providing MEP/FP design, energy modeling and LEED fundamental and enhanced commissioning for the new 40-story, 1,205-key Marriott Marquis Chicago developed across the street.