Tech firms continue to drive Chicago real estate, prioritizing unique spaces and creative work environments. That’s why we’ve pulled together gurus like Skender Construction VP and partner Andy MacGregor (snapped with the family) to explore both industries' symbiosis at Bisnow’s Chicago Creative Office Summit, Jan. 28 at Willis Tower, beginning at 7am. In the past six months, Andy's noticed tech companies moving away from the stereotypical concrete floors. You’re also beginning to see a lot of A/V installations for projections on common area walls and more LED design features, like a movable LED wall his firm put up at Motorola Mobility’s Merchandise Mart offices.

For Andy, the term “creative office” comes into play during design and construction. Young startups and tech incubators often have no formalized plan and limited budget, so Skender serves as partner and adviser given projects’ tight timelines. Even at Motorola, a 735k SF job well over $100M, Andy was working with engineers to consolidate around 50-plus labs into nine mega-labs. Another creative move: getting special permission from the City for powered adjustable-height desks on wheels, also favored by trading firms like Getco. Just back from visiting family in Maui (above), Andy’s knee-deep in Google’s top secret HQ at 1000 Fulton and enjoying this hockey weather.