Project Spotlight - Cooney & Conway

After more than three decades in the same office, Cooney & Conway found themselves at an unexpected crossroads. What began as a request for new carpet ultimately became an opportunity to rethink the firm's workplace. Rather than renovate around existing limitations, the firm chose to find a new home that would support its next generation of attorneys while honoring the culture and legacy that has defined the practice for more than 65 years.

Founded in 1958, Cooney & Conway is one of Chicago's most respected personal injury law firms, known for representing individuals and families with compassion, integrity, and decades of legal expertise. Having occupied the same office since the early 1990s, the relocation process itself was unfamiliar territory for Cooney & Conway. Working alongside Lumen and Skender, CGS’s role extended beyond interior design—we became trusted advisors, helping the team navigate every decision from site selection through project completion.

The search led to an existing law office at 191 W. Wacker, a space with the right framework already in place. Perimeter offices, café infrastructure, and extensive built-in file storage aligned closely with the firm's operational needs, allowing the project to focus investment where it would have the greatest impact.

The design strategy centered on creating a workplace that feels both established and forward-looking. The arrival experience was completely transformed with fluted walnut paneling, stone detailing, a custom reception desk wrapped in pleated fabric, and a calming landscape mural that welcomes clients with warmth rather than formality. Conference rooms balance rich materiality—including deep oxblood carpet insets, coffered ceilings, and grasscloth wallcoverings—with seamlessly integrated technology that keeps connections reliable while concealing cables and equipment within the furniture.

Equally important was creating spaces that support the collegial culture of the firm. A refreshed café, updated with new finishes, lighting, and surfaces, has become a destination for lunches, celebrations, and the informal conversations that strengthen the workplace community.

By thoughtfully reusing existing conditions that worked and investing where it mattered most, the project delivers a workplace that reflects Cooney & Conway's reputation for professionalism while supporting the way the firm will practice law for years to come.

“We absolutely loved working with [CGS]. Throughout the entire process, they were always the voice of reason, made great recommendations, provided us with well-reasoned solutions and above all, created a beautiful, unique design. CGS listened to us and observed our environment. Every design choice they recommended was tailored to us and our needs. We look forward to walking into our new space every day and still do a double take every time the elevator doors open – is this really ours? We highly recommend working with CGS. Their expertise and talent are unmatched. “ — Ellen Cooney, Business Manager and Margaret K White, Director of Human Resources