Press Releases

Historic property at 20 N. Wacker Dr. closed 24 transactions

January 07, 2026


CHICAGO – Transwestern Real Estate Services (TRS) announces 159,403 square feet of new and renewal lease transactions at the Civic Opera Building, 20 North Wacker Dr., in 2025. John Nelson, Eric Myers, and Kathleen Bertrand serve as the broker representative team for the historic property. The building is also managed by Transwestern’s Asset Services group.

“Despite the financial headwinds facing the Civic Opera Building, we continue to see strong demand from companies that appreciate its iconic architecture and prime location,” said Nelson. “These new and renewed leases demonstrate our ability to deliver value and attract tenants who believe in Chicago and are looking to bring workers back to the office.”

24 leases have been completed at the Civic Opera Building since January 1, 2025.

  • Eight new tenants have signed deals for a total of 102,260 square feet. Notably, coworking space provider Workbox signed a deal for 68,137 square feet.
  • 15 tenants have renewed space for a total of 57,143 square feet.  

Built in 1928, the 915,000-square-foot, 44-story Civic Opera Building is a Class B property in downtown Chicago that was renovated in 2015. In 2021, the Circuit Court of Cook County appointed Transwestern the receiver of the Civic Opera Building, and the company now leases and manages the property. Tenant amenities include a flexible conference center, studio theater for professional presentations, fitness center, roof terrace overlooking the Chicago River, and tenant lounge. Passerby and tenants alike have access to Espresso and Milk coffee bar, and the on-site management team maintains a full calendar of seasonal events for tenants.

Image available for download here.

About Transwestern Real Estate Services
Part of the Transwestern companies, Transwestern Real Estate Services (TRS) strives to add value for investors, owners and occupiers across all commercial property types. Fueled by a holistic perspective of the real estate life cycle, agility and creativity are hallmarks of our approach, while vast national resources and sound market intelligence underpin customized recommendations and property solutions.

Four dynamic, integrated companies make up the Transwestern enterprise, giving us the perspective to think broadly, deeply and creatively about commercial real estate. Clients and investors rely on us for expertise that spans institutional and opportunistic investment, development, hospitality, and brokerage and asset services. Our award-winning, collaborative culture empowers team members with resources and independence to work across boundaries in pursuit of innovative solutions, reinforcing a reputation for service excellence that translates to measurable results. Through offices nationwide and alliance partners around the globe, we positively impact the built environment and our communities while fostering a work climate that champions career vitality for all. Learn more at transwestern.com and @Transwestern.

Media Contact:
Mason Johnson
312.558.3897
Mason.Johnson@transwestern.com
twmediarelations@transwestern.com

John Nelson

Vice President, Brokerage

Chicago, Illinois

(312) 257-2892

Eric Myers

Executive Vice President

Chicago, Illinois

(312) 881-7017

Kathleen Bertrand

Senior Vice President

Chicago, Illinois

(312) 881-7046