RUSH Armour Academic Center – Physicians Lounge

Chicago, Illinois


In the heart of the bustling campus at RUSH University Medical Center, an unused locker and mail room took up valuable real estate in the Armour Academic Center. Eckenhoff Saunders accepted the challenge of breathing life into this dormant space, envisioning a lounge that would become a hub for socializing and relaxation for physicians needing a quick reset from their busy schedules.

Spaces were organized from social to private with a generous café, lounge, TV den, and individual relaxation rooms. Furniture was chosen to suit a variety of postures and activities ranging from touch-down work to deep relaxation. A small, right-sized locker room was provided along with a comfortable mother’s room. The adjacent offices and conference center was refreshed with new paint, ceilings, lighting, and furniture. This project is a testament to the transformative power of design and exemplifies the potential for revitalizing neglected spaces into thriving hubs of activity and connection.