Office, Industrial
Chicago, IL

Greater Chicago Food Depository

A 37,000 SF industrial facility expansion with 11.5 acres of site work.
The project includes a commercial kitchen for meal preparation and packaging, a demonstration kitchen for nutrition education, and parking expansion for volunteers, guests and fleet.
Client/Owner
Greater Chicago Food Depository
Architect
Partners by Design
Square Footage
37000
Certifications
LEED Silver
Awards
Community Reinvestment Project of the Year (CoreNet)

The expanded facility significantly increases its capacity to deliver 30,000 meals daily. To meet the needs of the client, Skender implemented a creative, multi-phased site logistical approach that allowed for continuous operations during construction. By recycling on-site fill to create topography and building pads, the team minimized the need to export materials, thereby reducing landfill contributions. This innovative strategy saved the client both time and money.

Achieving LEED Silver Certification, the project incorporates hydroponic container farming, allowing the Food Depository to grow fresh produce on-site, as well as extensive use of native plants and retention ponds for effective runoff control. The redesigned lobby serves as a welcoming entry point for volunteers while highlighting the organization’s contributions to the community. The expansion includes improved parking for trucks and staff, along with a lobby that emphasizes the Food Depository’s mission.

The project was completed seven weeks ahead of schedule