Hospitality
Chicago
2013
DMK Soldiers Field Concessions – Prototype Design
In the past, regular visitors to Soldiers Field in Chicago, IL had few options for concessions, beyond the ordinary fare of hotdogs, popcorn or pretzels and beer or soda. On the Chicago Bear’s opening day in 2013, game attendees were introduced to DMK Burger Bar, an upscale hamburger restaurant featuring grass fed beef and American craft beers. DMK, part of Morton’s Steak House, experienced high volume sales that day and continued to be well received, with plans for expansion later that year. Although considered an “interior” finish out, Soldiers Field is open air, so that materials had to withstand cold weather and robust cleaning.
Douglas Architects, Inc. (DAI) collaborated with the national firm of Innovative Food Services (IFS), to provide architectural design services for this fast-tracked project, including prototype design and incorporation, selection of finish materials and colors, consultant coordination and construction documents, as well as contract administration oversight. DAI worked closely with IFS and Aramark staff to coordinate equipment locations and improve functionality for faster, more efficient service to the customer.
