Why Bell Works Chicagoland’s West Side Is the Future of Flexible Work

In the evolving world of work, flexible office space has become more than just a convenience; it’s a fundamental driver of how businesses grow, innovate, and thrive. Nowhere is this shift more apparent than at Bell Works Chicagoland in Hoffman Estates, Illinois. Following the overwhelming success of its East Side campus, Bell Works Chicagoland is breaking ground on the West Side redevelopment, ushering in a new era of flexible office space in Chicagoland designed to meet the needs of tomorrow’s workforce.

If you’re searching for flexible office space in Chicagoland that combines smart design, community-driven culture, and cutting-edge amenities,this next phase of Bell Works (its West Side expansion) represents the future of work in the Midwest. Let’s explore why this next phase of Bell Works is so transformative for businesses, employees, and the suburban office market.

The Metroburb Model: A New Way to Work, Live, and Play

Bell Works Chicagoland isn’t just an office complex; it’s a metroburb, a term that blends metropolis and suburbia to describe a self-contained, downtown-style destination in a suburban location. This unique concept integrates traditional office space with retail, dining, wellness, and event venues, all under one roof. Inspired by the original Bell Works campus in New Jersey, the Chicagoland development redefines what a workplace can be.

The East Side of Bell Works Chicagoland has been a tremendous success, nearing 95% leased and buzzing with activity. It has already been proven that professionals want more than sterile office towers; they crave environments that foster collaboration, creativity, and a healthy balance.

Breaking Ground: The West Side Redevelopment

With the East Side nearly at full capacity, Inspired by Somerset Development recently broke ground on the West Side of Bell Works Chicagoland, marking a pivotal moment in the property’s evolution.

This second phase unlocks over 500,000 square feet of new space, including:

  • 430,000 square feet of traditional office space designed to accommodate growing companies.
  • Approximately 35,000 square feet of fully furnished “Ready-to-Wear” office suites for flexible short- and long-term leases.
  • 70,000 square feet of vibrant retail space, enhancing the community atmosphere.

This expansion speaks directly to the growing demand for adaptable, plug-and-play office environments that support hybrid teams and evolving business needs.

Ralph Zucker, CEO and Founder of Inspired by Somerset Development, described the West Side groundbreaking as a “defining moment not just for Bell Works Chicagoland, but in proving how the metroburb model can reshape the suburban landscape.” This bold vision is transforming a once-obsolete AT&T campus into a vibrant, multi-use destination.

Location and Accessibility: A Strategic Central Suburb

Bell Works Chicagoland is located at 2000 Center Drive, Hoffman Estates, IL, with easy access via the East Entrance. Situated in one of Chicago’s fastest-growing suburban markets, it strikes the perfect balance for companies seeking proximity to Chicago’s urban core while enjoying the benefits of suburban space and lifestyle.

The site offers ample parking and excellent connections to major highways and nearby transit lines, making it accessible for commuters across the region.

This ideal location helps businesses attract top talent who want the flexibility to avoid the stresses of downtown commutes without sacrificing the amenities of a dynamic workplace.

Flexible Office Space for Today’s Workforce

The West Side’s 35,000 square feet of Ready-to-Wear suites is a game-changer for flexible office space in Chicagoland. These suites are fully furnished and customizable, allowing businesses to lease from just a few desks up to entire suites with ease. Whether you’re a startup needing short-term space or an established company looking to expand without long-term commitment, this flexible model gives you the freedom to scale as you grow.

Flexible office space goes beyond simple square footage; it’s about creating a productive, adaptable environment that supports collaboration, focus, and work-life balance. Bell Works’ coLab takes this to the next level by offering thoughtfully designed workspaces, flexible membership options, and a vibrant community that empowers professionals to connect, innovate, and thrive. 

Whether you need a hot desk for a day, a dedicated desk, a private suite, or even a meeting room membership, coLab makes it easy to find the right fit for your work style.

  • Modern layouts designed for hybrid work styles.
  • Shared conference and event spaces to foster connection.
  • Access to on-site amenities like fitness centers, dining, and retail.
  • A vibrant community culture energized by dynamic programming.

All of this means tenants get not just a place to work, but a space to thrive.

A Culinary Destination to Energize the Workday

chicagoland food hall - bell market

No modern workplace can thrive without excellent food and beverage options, and Bell Works Chicagoland’s recent grand opening of Bell Market sets a new standard for workplace dining in the region.

Bell Market is a food hall concept featuring five chef-driven restaurants, including Honeybell Bakery & Cafe, Broadfork Greens + Grains, Jozu, Yeeroz, and Beef & Bird. Whether it’s a quick lunch, a casual meeting, or an after-work social, Bell Market offers high-quality, diverse cuisine just steps away for tenants and visitors.

This culinary hub not only satisfies cravings but also encourages community interaction, informal networking, and a culture of connection that spills over into the workplace.

Building for the Future with Modern Amenities

As part of Bell Works Chicagoland’s continued transformation, the West Side expansion enhances a campus already known for its robust amenities. With a full-service fitness center on the East Side, versatile event spaces, and architecturally inspiring gathering areas, Bell Works is thoughtfully evolving to meet the future of work and supporting productivity, wellness, and community under one roof.

Reshaping the Suburban Office Landscape

Chicago’s office market has faced challenges in recent years, with rising vacancy rates and stalled new construction projects. Despite this, Bell Works Chicagoland is a beacon of innovation and confidence.

The West Side expansion represents one of the largest new office redevelopment projects underway in the region, aiming to revitalize suburban commercial real estate by offering a compelling alternative to traditional office towers.

With a 1.6 million-square-foot campus upon full build-out, Bell Works Chicagoland is set to become a premier destination for business, community, and culture in the Chicago suburbs.

Why Choose Bell Works West Side for Your Flexible Office Needs?

  1. Unmatched Flexibility: From coLab memberships to Ready-to-Wear suites and traditional office spaces, we provide leasing options that scale with your business.
  2. Community-Driven Environment: The metroburb model encourages collaboration, creativity, and networking with retail, dining, and event spaces integrated on campus.
  3. Prime Location: Convenient access to highways, parking, and public transit makes commuting easier for your team.
  4. Modern Amenities: From wellness studios to gourmet dining at Bell Market, Bell Works offers everything employees need to stay productive and engaged.
  5. Sustainability and Design: The redevelopment features architectural innovations, including photovoltaic sunroofs and indoor public spaces, that create an inspiring work environment.

What’s Next? A Vision Realized

bell works chicagoland west side expansion

Construction on the West Side is already underway, with completion slated for the third quarter of next year. This timeline means companies looking for flexible office space in Chicagoland will soon have access to brand-new, thoughtfully designed spaces that cater to the realities of hybrid work, talent retention, and modern business growth.

If you’re interested in office or retail space at Bell Works, we encourage you to reach out to learn more about available opportunities.

Tara Keating   908-391-7123   tarak@inspiredsd.com

Steve Kling     847-698-8256   steve.kling@colliers.com

The Future Is Flexible & It’s Here at Bell Works Chicagoland

The West Side redevelopment of Bell Works Chicagoland marks a bold step toward the future of work in the Chicago suburbs. By combining flexible office space, vibrant retail, wellness amenities, and a community-centered design, Bell Works is proving that the suburban office park of yesterday can evolve into the metroburb of tomorrow.

Whether you’re a startup, a growing business, or an established enterprise, Bell Works offers flexible, scalable office solutions designed to help you attract talent, innovate, and succeed in an ever-changing work landscape.

As the East Side reaches capacity and the West Side prepares to welcome tenants, now is the perfect time to explore how Bell Works Chicagoland can elevate your company’s workspace and culture. Learn more about Bell Works West Side!

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