Charged with the ambition to add the largest rooftop venue in the country to the list of attractions dotting the historic Chicago Navy Pier, Concentrics Restaurants hired Koo Architecture, a collaborative team of Interior Designers and Architects based in the Chicago area. In 2019, when the project was complete, The Guinness Book of World Records officially named Offshore, "The World's Largest Rooftop Deck."
Beyond the sheer size, the goal of the project was to create a unique indoor/outdoor experience catering to both families and adult customer demographics year-round, come rain or shine. Not only that, but Koo Architecture wanted visitors to experience an oasis of serenity alongside the buzzing Chicago location, as though they were spending time on a boat at sea.

 
The sweeping views made possible by the 20,000 sq. ft. wrap-around terrace certainly help to bring this concept to life. While the interior flooring at Offshore is mortar set, like most modern rooftop decks an open joist pedestal paver system covers the waterproof membrane and rigid insulation that creates a thermal envelope beneath the porcelain paver surface.
Koo specified Archatrak 'Eterno NM' pedestals to support the deck and ensure a perfectly level walking surface. These heavy-duty supports feature screwable central columns which enable micro height adjustments to be made both before and after installation. Noise transmission through the pavers to the rooftop below was minimized due to the rubber layer atop the pedestal heads.
With exposure to Lake Michigan's winds and the relatively high elevation of the site, finding a wind uplift mitigation solution was a top priority for Koo. Steel protection trays combined with secondary clear fence panels allowed them to overcome any potential risk of wind uplift and avoid detracting from the elegant setting with an unattractive paver locking system.
For the terrace's surface, ?,? 3/4 " thick porcelain pavers were selected over much heavier concrete pavers due to their lower long-term maintenance requirements, ease of cleaning, resistance to staining, elimination of moss, mildew buildup, and freedom from cracking in freezing conditions. Their impressive strength-to-weight ratio meant that the extra weight of the expansive deck could be minimized. The color chosen, "Cemento," complements the breathtaking outdoor environment perfectly.
Cocktail hour at Offshore is enhanced by vintage pool tables, oversize windows or "glass walls" surrounding the interior, a Y-shaped planter symbolizing the Chicago River system, and several outdoor fireplaces. The 8,500 square-foot indoor lounge includes an impressive 60' bar that can seat up to 100 customers at a time. Gathering areas are strategically placed throughout the venue to inspire a comfortable, social setting for weddings and corporate events.
Metallic elements combined with deep blue accents and white lines have created a welcoming, space with a modern, nautical theme that is both sophisticated and industrial. Every detail, down to the selection of light fixtures and the stitching on the custom seating has been meticulously designed or sourced, including natural shipbuilding materials that you would find at the waterfront.
Night or day, time spent at Offshore is a truly magical experience. Even amid the pandemic, the spaces designed by Koo Architecture can maintain their lively atmosphere. It's a testament to the exceptional talent of the firm, their attention to detail, and ability to think ahead of their time, that makes this venue such an appealing place to be.