Chicago has emerged as a strong innovation hub with a world-class startup ecosystem and a rich talent pool in nearly every industry, making it the perfect place for coworking to thrive. It was exciting for me to see MakeOffices open its first two Chicago coworking communities in early 2016 – in River North and in The Loop – and we’re thrilled to announce the opening of our newest community at 541 N Fairbanks in the Streeterville neighborhood. It has been great to watch our diverse community of movers and shakers grow their businesses in our collaborative spaces, and our third Chicago location is set to continue this trend. Our Streeterville location is at the center of adtech, healthcare, and cultural activity, and our community of freelancers, technology startups, and creative agencies will have unparalleled access to the resources they need to succeed.
At MakeOffices, we strive to create Collaborative Collisions at our coworking spaces through an emphasis on community and networking opportunities. With nine locations open in Chicago, Washington, D.C., and Philly and eight more under construction, we’re set to continue our objective of providing runway for rapidly growing companies to expand.
What sets MakeOffices apart is our view of membership as a holistic experience. We want our members to grow professionally and socially in an environment that also supports their health and wellness. In addition to all-inclusive amenities, each of our locations have fresh fruit, craft beer, artisanal coffee, and anti-gravity massage chairs. In Streeterville, our stylishly designed space features 109 offices, 263 desks, six call rooms, four conference rooms, a relaxation room, wellness room, and a 40-person event space.
In addition to the on-site amenities, each location is positioned to provide members easy access to the city’s must-see hotspots. To get ready for our grand opening, I asked Sharris Wilson, Streeterville’s new Community Manager and longtime Chicago native, to share four of her favorite things about the neighborhood and why she’s excited for members to take advantage of everything the area has to offer.
1. Convenience You Can’t Beat
The convenience of our new Streeterville location can’t be beat. We’re located on the Northwestern Medicine campus and near the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, meaning our healthcare sector members have easy access to the resources they need to succeed. Our office is just steps away from the Michigan Avenue advertising agency corridor and Magnificent Mile shopping, and is close to major public transportation routes. With the Chicago Lakefront trail so close by, members will have no problem staying fit or enjoying the beautiful coast of Lake Michigan.
2. The Diverse Community
Streeterville is an eclectic and diverse community with a variety of entertainment options for city dwellers and tourists alike – there’s something for everyone here! One of my favorite things to do in the spring is check out the weekly SOAR (Streeterville Organization of Active Residents) Farmer’s Market and in July, I’d recommend going to the Michigan Avenue Arts Fest.
3. Art and Culture
One of the best things about the Streeterville neighborhood is that there is never a shortage of arts and cultural activities. We’re right by the Museum of Contemporary Art, and they host Tuesday on the Terrace events and a wide variety of open workshops. Nearby Navy Pier boasts after-hours boat cruises and outdoor yoga in the summer, and the Landshark Beer Garden on the pier is a great happy hour spot to unwind after work.
4. Food, Food, and More Food
I love visiting new restaurants, and some of my favorite spots are in the Streeterville neighborhood just steps away from MakeOffices. Blaze Pizza is a great place for a quick, casual bite for any pizza-lover. If I want to catch brunch with friends, I head over to Yolk for creative breakfast food, specialty smoothies, and house-made coffee. For great seafood and an amazing wine selection, I’d recommend Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab restaurant. Streeterville is a foodie haven – you’ll never run out of top-notch restaurants to try!
I’m floating around our various locations but would love for you to meet Sharris and see the Streeterville location. The easiest way to do that is to book a tour today. Looking forward to a gorgeous and productive summer in Chicago.
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MakeOffices is built for collaboration and innovation. From freelancers to Fortune 500s, our coworking communities will help you grow your business and meet like-minded people to help you succeed.
