U.S. North Central

The North Central region reflects the steady determination, grounded optimism, and deep commitment to community that defines the Midwest. It’s a place where hard work and genuine goodwill — grit and grace — shape both the built environment and the people who call it home. Chicago’s headquarters gravity, Minneapolis’ med-tech leadership, Detroit’s manufacturing and lifestyle reinvention, and Columbus’ emerging data center and tech economy are together shaping a market built on resilience and renewal. Office demand may be uneven, but momentum is building around mixed-use districts, industrial innovation, and experience-led development. Developers are capitalizing on a deep stock of adaptable buildings and an authentic urban fabric to blend workplaces, labs, hospitality, and residential into integrated environments. From advanced manufacturing and medical technology to sports, entertainment, and next-gen R&D, the region is moving beyond single-use models toward ecosystems that reflect its talented workforce, pragmatic creativity, and long-term commitment to quality of place.

What’s Next

Mixed-use urban districts are the blueprint for growth.

Developers find success in multi-use districts that combine workplace, residential, retail, and entertainment. Whether they’re anchored by arenas, offices, or labs, these projects signal a regional shift away from single-use spaces toward 24-hour neighborhoods that bring people together.

Conversions emerge as the region’s fastest-growing asset class.

Conversions continue to dominate the development conversation, especially in Chicago, where as much as 70% of commercial buildings are over 30 years old. The market expands beyond office-to-residential into hotel, industrial, and mixed-use reinventions.

Industrial innovation fuels new real estate demand.

Advanced manufacturing, research, and logistics generate fresh momentum around the Twin Cities and Detroit. From electric vehicles to medical devices, the convergence of technology and production reshapes site selection and creates opportunities for lab, R&D, and hybrid workspace development.

Human-centric design and mixed-use districts revive the workplace.

Employers across the region embrace experience-rich workplaces that draw energy from surrounding mixed-use districts. In Chicago, Minneapolis, and Detroit, people expect spaces that foster belonging and well-being, making these environments vital to culture and retention.

Notable Projects

A large glass building. — **Ironworkers Local 63 Training Center**, Broadview, Illinois

A group of people sitting on a sidewalk next to a building. — **Northside Forward**, Minneapolis, Minnesota

A tall building with a glass front. — **360 North Green**, Chicago, Illinois

People walking on a street. — **Wichita State University Campus Master Plan**, Wichita, Kansas

Insights from the Gensler Research Institute

Community Life Defines the Urban Appeal of North Central Cities

Across the North Central, residents in Chicago, Columbus, Detroit, and Minneapolis give the highest satisfaction scores to the qualities that define the region and reinforce its appeal: cultural vibrancy, pride, and everyday access to city life and amenities.

Top Satisfaction Markers by City

Chicago: city aesthetics
Columbus: cultural activities
Detroit: neighborhood amenities
Minneapolis: neighborhood amenities

Source: Gensler City Pulse 2025

Notable Areas of Expertise

Offices

Thought Leadership

In The Media

The Wall Street Journal Featured Insights From Gensler Principal Todd Heiser on How AI-Powered Sensors Can Fine-Tune the Workplace in Real-Time

Gensler’s Todd Heiser breaks down how major tech and consulting firms are utilizing AI-powered sensors that learn employees’ comfort preferences and adjust automatically.

The Wall Street Journal

Blog

NEXT NEXT: Redefining Science Work for the AI and Machine Era

Our new concept looks at how AI and automation are redefining the science workplace and reshaping the future of labs.

Blog

The New Economics of Sports Venue Design

From NIL-driven college athletics to multi-tiered VIP lounges and mixed-use districts, sports venues are evolving into dynamic business ecosystems.

Blog

How a New Vision for Flexible Co-Living Conversions Can Support Housing Affordability

Gensler and The Pew Charitable Trusts studied building typologies in 10 cities to better understand the potential in this unique office-to-residential conversion model.

A street with people and buildings on the side.

Blog

Mixed-Use Developments: A Sustainable Blueprint for Urban Growth

High-density mixed-use developments can be a powerful engine for economic growth, resilience, and cultural and socioeconomic cohesion.

In The Media

The Rise of Retail-to-Office Conversions Featuring Gensler-Designed Loffler and Dayton's Repositioning

Commercial Property Executive interviewed Gensler's Deanne Erpelding about the rise in retail to office conversions, sharing Loffler and the Dayton's Repositioning as successful examples.

Commercial Property Executive

A man and woman walking in a large room with tables and chairs.

Blog

The Future of Real Estate Metrics: Human Connection

The places that thrive in the years ahead will be designed to build relationships, inspire belonging, and foster togetherness.

Blog

Blueprint for Change: How Modern Training Centers Are Redefining the Trades

With thoughtful design, modern training centers for skilled trades are reshaping perceptions of vocational education.

Blog

Families Are Leaving Cities — Here’s How to Win Them Back

Children are critical to well-functioning cities. How can we ensure our cities work well for children and encourage parents to stay?

Blog

3 Overlooked Human Factors That Make-or-Break Mergers and Acquisitions

Organizations that integrate people, culture, and physical space into their M&A strategy can unlock lasting value.

Blog

Office-to-Hotel Conversions: Resilient Opportunities for Downtown Districts

Older and smaller Class B or C office buildings have been hit hard by high vacancy rates. Converting them to efficient, business travel hotels could offer an economical solution that supports the overall health of downtown business districts.

Blog

The Top 10 Cities People Don’t Want to Leave

Gensler’s 2025 City Pulse survey reveals the top cities where people not only move to, but also stay long-term.

In The Media

Gensler Is Leading the Master Plan and Stadium Design for Related Midwest’s The 78 Mixed-Use Development

Chicago Fire FC’s new home will create a mix of housing, parks, public spaces, and year-round activation. Gensler’s Kirk Funkhouser discussed how the stadium design respects Chicago’s architectural past.

Forbes