Spanning 239,000 sf, the Kellogg School of Management Ann M Drake Executive Center at Northwestern University replaces the former James L. Allen Center with a modern academic and hospitality facility designed to support the school’s evolving educational mission. The new building features 167,000 sf of institutional space across the lower levels and three levels above, as well as 72,000 sf of hospitality space with guestrooms on floors four through six. The enclosure consists of curtainwall, metal panels, and limestone cladding. Basement construction was supported by a cold-rolled sheeting earth retention system and extensive underground utilities. The project incorporated typical structural systems, high-end interior finishes, and advanced MEP, including radiant ceiling panels in common areas.
Situated centrally on campus, the build required continuous coordination for site logistics, pedestrian safety, and work adjacent to active facilities. To maintain schedule and mitigate procurement delays, early awards were issued for critical trades such as curtainwall, elevators, structure, and MEP, while long-lead specialty items—including German-sourced radiant ceiling panels—were prioritized in procurement. VDC, quality, and safety teams were engaged from preconstruction onward, supporting design optimization and execution. Exterior mockups and full curtainwall performance testing ensured quality standards. Replacing an outdated facility, the new center expands Kellogg’s classroom and guestroom capacity while aligning with the school’s long-term vision for innovative business education.
