Project Scope

Graycor was the general contractor for the 45-acre expansion of the Chicago Premium Outlets, one of Simon’s largest expansion projects to date. The project expands the mall by nearly two-thirds and includes 290,000 square feet of leasable space to accommodate the addition of 50 new stores.

Major infrastructure and site work included the demolition of existing parking areas and roadways, utility relocations, grading and construction of a water detention area. Revised site access work included a new perimeter ring road, drop-offs, a north entrance road, traffic signals and addition of 2,200 parking spaces, more than doubling the amount of parking.

The modern, clean and elegant design is intended to provide a welcoming and dynamic environment to the open-air shopping center. Unique elements and amenities include water fountains, fire pits, seating, lighting, wayfinding signage, artwork, free Wi-Fi with charging stations and an abundance of lush landscape. Custom decorative structures, such as trellises, arbors, galleries and awnings, provide both beauty and practicality throughout the shopping center.

The focal point of the expansion is a 16,800-square-foot open-air boat pond with a decorative pier-like covered pavilion extending out over the water. Holding 120,000 gallons of filtered water, the pond transforms into an ice rink during the winter season. A playground, nearby restaurants and an abundance of seating around the pond completes the community gathering space.

Graycor also upgraded a 250,000-square-foot portion of the outlet center with planters, artwork, landscaping, seating areas and other new amenities to complement the new expansion.