CHICAGO, IL Novak Construction recently completed construction of a new Whole Foods Market in Chicago, Illinois. Hyde Park's new tenant at City Hyde Park, 5118 S. Lake Park Ave., is a 30,000-square-foot store and is Whole Foods Market's 26th Chicagoland store.

The new store features a "secret society - intellectual theme" that pays homage to the University of Chicago neighborhood. This is highlighted by a dark blue and brass color-scheme, walnut wood throughout, professors' office doors on restroom stalls, and University symbolism embedded in the décor. The project scope also included installing a sophisticated mechanical system with fluid coolers, VRFs and air handlers.

The underground parking garage and the apartment complex above the store were designed by famed architect, Jeanne Gang.

Prior to the opening, Chicago Mayor, Rahm Emmanuel, toured the store, noting the jobs it created and crediting Whole Foods Market with honoring its commitment to be in all parts of the city. Whole Foods is also known for utilizing a number of local vendors to supply their stores with the products highlighting the neighborhood's local flavor and unique or historical traits, as well as supporting the community philanthropically. Whole Foods will donate a portion of its net sales to the youth bicycle training program, Blackstone Bicycle Works.

This Novak project was led by Director Steve Bykowski and included Superintendent Dan Evans; Senior Project Manager Karen Rugh; Project Manager Mimi Novak; Contract Administrator Angela Campisi; and Project Accountant Mark Weiner.