An Ode to THE MART: Paying Homage to a 96-Year-Old Institution Through Experiential Design

by Jill Doran, Studio Director | Design, Partners by Design

In the heart of Chicago’s vibrant downtown stands an iconic building that has long symbolized innovation, design, and commerce: the Merchandise Mart. Since its grand opening in 1930, this monumental Art Deco structure has been a focal point of creativity and enterprise, once holding the title of the largest building in the world. Today, this historic institution is celebrated not only for its architectural grandeur but also for its pivotal role in shaping the city’s cultural and business landscape.

Blending history with modernity, the Pinterest workplace offers a special tribute to the spirit of the Merchandise Mart, bringing the essence of Chicago’s iconic landmarks and design-forward culture into a vibrant, functional office space. Designed by the PBD team in collaboration with Pinterest's in-house design team, this 19,000-square-foot workspace transforms the traditional office into a dynamic, experience-driven hub that honors the city’s legacy while embracing the future of collaboration and creativity.

A Curated Experience Inspired by Chicago’s Spirit

When conceptualizing the Pinterest office space, we envisioned more than just a place to work—the Pinterest team sought to create an immersive experience that captured the very soul of Chicago. The goal was to inspire employees to utilize the office for collaboration, inspiration, and support, fostering a sense of pride and connection. Each section of the office draws inspiration from one of the city’s defining features, from its famed architecture and culinary scene to its sports culture and artistic heritage.

A micro-kitchen, modeled after a Chicago pizza parlor, brings a touch of local flavor, while a Riverwalk-inspired lounge invites moments of relaxation and inspiration. The All-Hands space, on the other hand, takes cues from the city’s vibrant public spaces, offering an open, welcoming atmosphere for all employees to gather.

The Navy Pier-inspired Executive Business Center blends functionality with the charm of one of Chicago’s most beloved landmarks. Meanwhile, the IT help desk, designed like a Chicago-style hot dog stand, adds a fun, playful touch to the workday. Conference rooms throughout the office pay tribute to iconic Chicago locations—Union Station, sports venues, and music halls—each space designed to evoke the energy and history of these landmarks.

However, it’s the unique Creator Space inspired by the Merchandise Mart that stands out as one of the most creative and locally resonant design elements. This space, a tribute to THE MART’s legendary showrooms, serves as a creative sanctuary for events, content creation, and daily meetings. It incorporates design elements reminiscent of THE MART’s showroom ambiance, including fabric walls, finish samples, and even a mood board pin-up wall—creating a dynamic environment where employees are encouraged to explore, craft, and innovate.

THE MART-Inspired Creator Space: A Tribute to Design

The Merchandise Mart is renowned for its extraordinary showrooms—spaces that showcase the best in furniture, textiles, and interior design. In the Pinterest office, this legacy is honored through a dedicated Creator Space that mirrors the experience of walking through one of these iconic showrooms. The facade of the space is designed to evoke the feel of THE MART’s curated displays, with a selection of iconic chair designs featured in a "showroom" window. This concept encourages discovery, inviting employees to interact with the space in ways that inspire their own creative processes.

Inside, the space is outfitted with sample walls, textile displays, and finish samples used in the office’s own design process. This fusion of style and functionality not only celebrates THE MART’s enduring impact on Chicago’s design community but also ensures that the Pinterest workplace remains a dynamic environment where creativity can flourish.

A City, A Building, and A Vision

By channeling the essence of Chicago—its design, culture, and vibrant community—through the lens of the Merchandise Mart, Pinterest and PBD have created a space that honors both the past and the future. This workplace is a tribute to a 96-year-old institution that continues to inspire innovation, creativity, and collaboration in Chicago. More than just a place to work, it’s a space to inspire—to honor the legacy of the Merchandise Mart and to shape the future of design and creativity in the heart of one of America’s greatest cities.