Chicago-based Omega Yeast, the largest supplier of brewer’s yeast in the U.S., has recently moved to its new 13,800-sf production facilities after the company outgrew its former space.
The company purchased an existing building a block away from the original space, but during the renovation, Omega Yeast realized it was already outpacing this new space as well. The company then purchased the lots behind the Phase 1 building to further expand the operations across the alley and to build a new building tailored to the unique business needs.
Because it is located in a residential area, the loud production facilities were pushed to the back of the building while the quieter lab spaces, offices, and the break room were moved toward the residential street front. Lab spaces on the second floor have wrap-around windows that are elevated to face the Metra platform on the east side.
Adjacent to the eastern wall are large silos for spent grain and dry grain, one of which is painted in brand colors. By the alley on the north side, a small patio faces a large glazed opening that exposes the brewing facilities.
The company’s recent rebrand informed the look of the building with white brick, black and white corrugated metal, warm wood finishes, and “Omega Yeast Blue” highlighting the design.
The build team included Valerio Dewalt Train (architect), J.T. Magen & Company (general contractor), Calor Design Group (civil, fire protection, and MEP), and Klein & Hoffman (structural engineer).
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