Project of the Year Feature: New Construction – Chicago Or Suburbs (Below $20M)

January 10, 2026

BURR RIDGE – CISCO’s 3rd 2025 Project of the Year Feature is the top choice of New Construction – Chicago Or Suburbs (Below $20M), which is House of Glass. The general contractor was Skyline Construction; the client was Ironworkers Local 63

When considering submissions, judging criteria is based on: quality of construction, design, impact on the community and safety record.

Project of the Year
The complex installation of the hourglass shape of Ironworkers Local 63 House of Glass’ curtainwall relied on precise layout techniques, and required innovation. Communication skills and problem solving skills were crucial to resolve this unique challenge. (c) Tom Harris, Design by Gensler
Project of the Year
The facility’s sweeping curved glass façade and full-scale mock structures make craft visible while providing hands-on learning for welding, rigging, and curtain wall installation. (c) Tom Harris, Design by Gensler

Ironworkers Local 63 has long had an impact on the Chicago skyline. Their history goes back to the 19th century when the union was founded as the Architectural Iron Workers with 579 members. Now in the 21st century, the Iron Workers are hoping that a new training facility will introduce a pipeline of new young workers to the field, and help with the overall shortage of skilled workers.

The new training facility will enable Apprentices to practice and learn their craft by building test structures. They will learn the complex task of how to install glass curtain walls, which requires skill and precise engineering to ensure structural integrity, weather resistance and energy efficiency. The training center addition, called “House of Glass” will be open to all Union Ironworkers locally and all from across U.S. and Canada to come train.

This project had a positive impact on the community because we were able to employ people from the community. When the residents of Broadview and the surrounding Chicago area pass by this beautiful new building, we hope that it inspires them to pursue a career in the skilled trades.

How we exemplified safety on this project: Filling out a JHA for every task, communicating daily with the GC on the setting plan and creating proper picking plan for crane usage, communicating with other trades on the site so that everyone has installation plan, being aware of surroundings, using equipment and tools properly, reporting hazards, prioritize wearing proper personal protective equipment (PPE), knowing emergency procedures, maintaining a clean workspace, following instructions, practicing safe lifting techniques, organizing and storing tools properly, and inspecting tools and equipment regularly.

Project of the Year
Through its form and presence, the facility elevates the profile of ironworking, engages partners, and inspires the next generation of tradespeople, positioning the Union and the profession for a future defined by skill, ingenuity, and enduring relevance. (c) Tom Harris, Design by Gensler

Part of the mission was maintaining and improving safety and quality: Innovative approaches can lead to safer work environments and better quality of installation, which with good communication and problem-solving skills allowed us to succeed on this project. Also part of the mission was to be environmentally friendly and reduce waste, and that requires Innovations in materials, energy-efficient designs, and waste reduction strategies. Overcoming challenges and unforeseen circumstances is crucial for success in Construction projects. Having an ingenious team and being able to adapt the plan to keep the project on track allowed us to be successful.

Project of the Year
Just as universities have long used architecture to embody ambition and shape identity, modern training centers must reflect technical mastery while signaling the resilience and long-term viability of these careers. (c) Tom Harris, Design by Gensler

The complex installation of the hourglass shape of the curtainwall relied on precise layout techniques, and required innovation. Communication skills and problem solving skills were crucial to resolve this unique challenge. Being able to motivate the team as well, and prioritizing client satisfaction while maintaining safety and 0 accidents, is crucial for success.

In addition to being a high-tech training facility designed to attract a younger workforce to the trade, the building will be a place where the Ironworkers can show off their work. The new building will help continue the Ironworkers tradition of training the next generation, putting people to work, and creating more jobs.

Project of the Year
As automation and AI reshape the workforce, the need for skilled, hands-on professions endures. For unions and training organizations, attracting the next generation means creating environments that showcase expertise, elevate craft, and convey the rigor and innovation behind the work. (c) Tom Harris, Design by Gensler
Project of the Year
This structure is a dynamic environment, demonstrating expertise, inspires pride, and positions ironworking as an essential, forward-looking profession. (c) Tom Harris, Design by Gensler
Project of the Year
The Ironworkers Local 63 Training Center acts as a regional anchor for developing skilled labor while celebrating the union’s craft. Its bold black glass façade, coupled with sustainable strategies like passive ventilation and solar power, transforms the building into a visible testament to precision, innovation, and environmental responsibility. (c) Tom Harris, Design by Gensler

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