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Different Types of Office Layouts

What are the Different Types of Office Layouts?

What are the Different Types of Office Layouts?

 

The ideal office layout skyrockets productivity and enhances communication between staff. In the most effective layout, all space is utilized. While office managers are flooded with varying office layout options, the most popular remain so for a reason. Here are the best office layouts.

A functional office layout should meet certain standards. One is to make use of all available floor space. Managers will be able to supervise employees and control their workforce. Communication is facilitated between departments and provides provisions for future expansion.

Employees, too, benefit significantly when they work in the right type of office layout. A wholesome environment increases workers’ feelings of comfort and safety. Staff who work on confidential projects can work in privacy. The right office layout is disturbance-free from external noises.

6 types of office layouts

 

1. Open-Plan Layout

Most popular with tech startups, creative firms, and growing companies, the open-plan layout enhances collaboration between team members. Walls and separations are not installed between workstations. Desks are stacked up side by side, or work-tables may facilitate meetings between multiple staff.

The benefits of the open-plan layout include reduced cost and saved space. The flexible seating arrangements allow for easy reconfiguration. Disadvantages also exist in an open-play layout: Distractions are constant, and some staff may feel anxious about the lack of privacy.

2. Private Office Layout

Mostly reserved for executives, managers, and other upper-level staff, the private office layout is sealed off entirely from the rest of the office floor. The interior walls reach up to the ceilings, providing a cellular style workstation. Sometimes multiple managers share a private office.

A private office layout is suitable for confidential projects and discussions. Senior managers enjoy a comfortable layout that facilitates the ability to concentrate and focus. The cons are that this isolating type of layout is uneconomical and makes it difficult to supervise employees.

Private Office Layout

 

3. Team-Cluster Layout

A popular office layout for team-based work, the team-cluster layout or team-oriented office layout, gives groups of employees plenty of collaboration opportunities. Depending on the nature of the work, staff share a single table for meetings, discussions, and a range of employee interactions.

A major advantage of the team-cluster layout is the minimized need for meeting rooms. Team building is strengthened between employees. Workflow is streamlined and productivity is boosted. Drawbacks are that staff are prone to noises, distractions, and a lack of individual spaces.

4. Cubicle Office Layout

The most cost-efficient layout is the cubicle office layout. Workspaces are separated by partitioning walls forming the shape of a cube. Oftentimes, the cubicle layout is combined with private offices for senior staff as well as built-in meeting rooms. This layout remains popular across corporate offices.

Equality is promoted in the cubicle office layout since all employees receive an equal amount of private space. Staff are able to focus without distractions. A large area can hold multiple workspaces. The downsides are that workers have fewer opportunities to interact, and the layout requires more space.

Cubicle Office Layout

 

5. Low-Partition Office Layout

The modernized version of the cubicle layout is the low-partition office layout. This type of office design features cubicle walls that are lower in height than the partitions in standard cubicles. The low-partition office layout, in effect, fosters collaboration between employees.

Another benefit of the low-partition office layout is how it enhances the work environment. Lower partitions allow more natural light to enter the cubicles. However, this design can make chitchat frequent and distract employees from work. Privacy may also be lacking.

6. Hybrid Office Layout

Fully customizable, the hybrid office layout blends the pleasing aspects of multiple types of office layouts into one. This design is the newest of all available styles and is the ideal solution to the disadvantages prominent in open offices and cubicles.

The hybrid office layout facilitates a dynamic work environment. Office managers can mix and match any of the abovementioned layouts, creating a versatile space. For example, an innovative office design may include a few cubicles, open-plan spaces, and co-working areas.

The benefits of a hybrid office layout are many. Being customizable is the biggest draw. Employees enjoy more control over where and how they work, thereby contributing to their work satisfaction. Mood improves in a hybrid layout, boosting productivity. More noise, however, can lead to distractions.

How Office Layout Affects Productivity and Well-Being of Your Employees

Your layout directly impacts how your team feels and performs. Here’s why:

  • Harvard research found that open offices can decrease face-to-face interaction by 70%, leading to more digital communication.
  • Offices with natural lighting and quiet focus areas saw a 15% rise in productivity and fewer reports of eye strain and fatigue.
  • Layouts that encourage movement and social connection help reduce burnout and improve employee morale.

Investing in the right setup pays off in more ways than one.

Avoid These 5 Office Layout Mistakes

Even well-meaning design choices can lead to big headaches down the road. Here are some of the most common office layout mistakes—and how to sidestep them:

5 Office Layout Mistakes to Avoid

  • Neglecting storage needs: Skimping on cabinets, closets, and filing solutions leads to clutter, which can impact workflow and morale.
  • Relying on poor lighting: Overhead fluorescent lights can cause eye strain and fatigue. Prioritize natural light where possible, and layer your lighting for comfort and function.
  • Ignoring acoustics: Open offices can get noisy fast. Acoustic panels, rugs, and dividers can help manage sound and keep conversations from traveling.
  • Not future-proofing your layout: Failing to plan for business growth, new tech, or flexible work policies can lead to costly reconfigurations later.
  • Rigid furniture arrangements: Fixed desks and immovable setups can hinder collaboration and make it hard to adapt your space.

Office Layout Trends in 2025 that You May Not Want to Miss

Modern office design is focused on adaptability, health, and technology. Here’s what’s gaining momentum this year:

  • Activity-Based Workspaces: Offices are being divided into task-specific zones—quiet spaces for concentration, lounges for informal chats, collaboration pods, and meeting rooms.
  • Flexible Workstations: With hot-desking and mobile furniture, businesses can easily adapt to hybrid schedules and fluctuating staff numbers.
  • Biophilic Design: Think more greenery, natural light, wood textures, and water features. These design elements are proven to reduce stress and boost employee satisfaction.
  • Tech-Integrated Offices: Smart office tech like app-controlled lighting, desk booking systems, and video conferencing tools make remote collaboration seamless.
  • Touchless Office Layouts: Contactless doorways, motion-sensor lighting, and voice-activated equipment are making shared workspaces healthier and more efficient.

Choose Chicago Office Movers For Office Relocation and Moving

Office layouts come in diverse shapes and sizes. Choosing the right one that suits the needs of a particular company culture is vital to ensuring optimum productivity and employee well-being. Consider the workplace culture, number of staff, and workflow when evaluating potential office layouts.

For some businesses, optimizing the workspace may mean simply moving desks and installing a few partitions. Other companies may need to embrace a holistic approach and carefully design the office based on the needs of their employees and the business.

Transforming an office layout to one that better suits your company’s needs may require professional assistance from Chicago Office Movers. Our experienced crews are available to move bulky office furniture and equipment so that you and your team work in a space that meets your needs.

When you are relocating to a new office altogether, Chicago Office Movers will make that important transition happen as seamlessly as possible. Our commercial movers are licensed, background-checked, and trained to protect your valuable office equipment and deliver professional service.

We fully protect office belongings with sturdy boxes and crates. Our climate-controlled trucks feature lift gates and air-ride suspensions to further safeguard fragile items during transport to the new corporate location. Convenient short- and long-term storage options and packing services are available.

Chicago Office Movers has successfully moved large corporations, like Alcatel Lucent, as well as smaller companies. Our dedicated office movers have safely transported cubicles, IT systems, electronics, artwork, antiques, and office furniture. We’ll provide you with the same excellent quality service.

Whether you are planning a local, long-distance, or international corporate relocation, choose Chicago Office Movers. We provide comprehensive moving services tailored especially for commercial businesses.

Call our Chicago office at 312-244-2246 (CHI-CAGO) for an estimate and join the ranks of our satisfied customers.

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Team having a discussion in office

How to Get the Most Out of Your Office Space

Team having a discussion in office

The office is where the majority of a company’s success happens. Colleagues brainstorm and collaborate, making the workspace an important part of productivity. But when the size of the office seems inadequate, it’s important to get the most out of it.

When planning the office layout, do so well in advance of moving in. This step saves the company time and money and simplifies the task of choosing office furniture and other essentials for the new office space. The layout should ideally meet the demands of how the team operates.

1. Foster Collaboration and Privacy

If office employees frequently collaborate, brainstorm, or meet with clients, then the layout should encourage these important work activities. Prioritize comfort. Cushiony couches and ergonomic chairs put staff members at ease, allowing them to focus on contributing to the discussions.

Not every office worker performs well in a team environment. Private and semi-private rooms are beneficial for staff members who are unable to focus in large groups. When planning the office, incorporate areas that feature both shared spaces as well as private areas.

Building privacy pods, for instance, is an opportunity for managers to get the most out of their office space. These dedicated personal spaces can be used for activities other than work, such as making phone calls or reading. The pods give employees private time while being at the office.

Take into account the unique needs of the office staff when attempting to maximize the office space. Give the employees different options for where they’d like to work. Keeping all members of the team happy helps them stay engaged and productive throughout the workday.

2. Use Functional, Movable Furniture

Furniture and its layout should also encourage ongoing brainstorming sessions. The furniture must be plentiful so that all office staff are accommodated. Arrange the couches in a circle to foster the idea of equal exchange and give everyone the ability to easily view their collaborators.

The aesthetic appeal of office furniture can create the desired mood for any type of company, whether it is one that is traditional or fun. However, the functionality of office desks and chairs is equally vital. Movable furniture offers office managers flexibility, while enhancing the office space.

Today’s employees require flexibility. Long gone are the days when fixed furniture overwhelmed the office. Nowadays, flexible furniture, such as ergonomic chairs, better meet the needs of employees, who can move the furniture around as needed. Plus, movable furniture adds extra space to the office.

3. Maximize Storage

An organized workspace is achieved through shelving and storage units. In fact, each office employee should be provided with a personal storage unit. Pedestals, for instance, can be tucked underneath the desk, thereby saving valuable office space. Mobile pedestals are not only useful but can be relocated.

Shelves installed above each desk give office staff easy access to everyday supplies. Dry-erase boards can be hung to communicate important messages. Wall-mounted shelves keep reference books and fun office knickknacks, like photos, within easy reach while not taking up floor space.

Personal storage systems help keep desks neat and uncluttered. An efficient space promotes organization in employees as they work. Desk drawers can be utilized to store pens and highlighters if the staff frequently use paper; similarly, hanging wall pockets keeps supplies within reach.

When optimizing storage spaces within the office, keep in mind their visual appeal. Some office storage options are large and bulky, and others are small and slim. Choose storage systems that complement the office layout, while also meeting the needs of the team.

Cozy and relaxing office design

4. Light Up the Office

Lighting and ventilation are essential when large numbers of employees share a work space. Both features are important to enhancing employee productivity, even going so far as to reduce the number of staff illnesses. A healthier work environment can be achieved by installing LED lighting.

While artificial lighting helps staff members work comfortably, natural lighting is equally beneficial. Employees enjoy having an outside view; so, when possible, choose an office space with windows on both sides. Natural lighting and adequate vents improve productivity without consuming space.

5. Choose Simple Designs

Bold colors, fun patterns, and outlandish artwork can distract even the most dedicated employees. Rather than cause stress and frustration to staff members trying to focus in small groups or independently, choose a neutral design to enhance the office space.

A neutral design features a limited number of colors and patterns and minimizes distractions. After all, it’s difficult to tune out the ostentatious art on the walls when trying to focus on work tasks. A minimalistic aesthetic in the office keeps office staff calm while working and boosts productivity.

Making the most of an office space can be done, even when the office is limited in size. But if you are planning to move your company to a bigger facility or considering downsizing to a smaller one, you’ll need the expertise of the commercial movers at Chicago Office Movers.

Our moving service has a long history of excellence. We’ve moved renowned customers, like Northwestern University and Alcatel Lucent, and we provide the same level of superior customer service to every single customer who schedules a corporate move with us.

The unionized moving crews at Chicago Office Movers are top-notch—trained, licensed, and background-checked—to ensure your peace of mind. We pack and unpack all office goods carefully, whether they are heavy office furniture, delicate artwork, sensitive electronics, IT systems, or fragile equipment.

We load all office items onto our climate-controlled trucks, featuring lift gates and air-ride suspensions, that fully protect your goods. Our customers receive tracking information to monitor the progress of the office relocation. Short- and long-term storage options are also available.

While Chicago Office Movers provides high-quality customer care, our trusted office moving services remain affordable. We proudly help Chicagoland businesses of all sizes relocate with success. Check out our multiple five-star ratings and give us a call today for a free estimate.

Call us at 312-244-2246 (CHI-CAGO) for a free estimate regarding our office moving services.

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Packing and getting ready for an office move

Avoid These Office Moving Mistakes

Packing and getting ready for an office move

Corporate relocations are on the rise as hybrid work increases and labor shortages mount. Any major business move requires extensive, strategic planning. While planning an office move, tread carefully, as making these ten common mistakes can increase the stress factor of the relocation.

Companies move for numerous reasons. Some may find the talent pool attractive in larger cities, like Chicago, and prioritize moving there. Other major corporations find urban areas rife with crime and struggle to hire skilled professionals, therefore moving out of the big cities.

Businesses may also expand their product or service offerings, which necessitates additional workspaces and larger production facilities. On the other hand, companies may have plans to downsize and seek a smaller, more economical building in which to continue business operations.

Whatever the reason for relocating the business, it is not an easy decision to make. Nevertheless, taking the company to a location where opportunities abound can boost employee morale. Greener pastures can be on the horizon for companies on the move. But it’s important to avoid these moving mistakes.

Mistake 1: Insufficient planning

Planning well in advance of the expected relocation date is critical to the success of the move. Set aside a few weeks to involve employees in the move and keep moving costs down. Assign dependable employees a role to facilitate specific parts of the move.

Mistake 2: Not taking inventory

Costly mistakes can arise when businesses fail to take an accurate inventory of the goods in the office. Without an inventory list, staff will struggle to ensure the right goods are moved correctly. Record all items moving to the new office as well as their locations in the new building.

Record the conditions of the items on the inventory list. The condition of high-end equipment should especially be noted. If the pricey equipment is damaged during the move, the business owner can hold the commercial mover accountable and streamline insurance claims.

Mistake 3: Failing to include IT staff

IT systems are crucial to today’s businesses. Setup of technology equipment will take time and advanced planning, especially since the electrical, network, and space factors could be different in the new office. Ensure the IT leaders see the layout in the new building beforehand and have time to make adaptations.

Mistake 4: Using the wrong moving supplies

Moving boxes come in all sizes. Choosing boxes that are too small or too large can lead to unwanted consequences. Packing small items in an extremely large box that allows significant wiggle room can result in damage to the items. Pick moving boxes with the right size to ensure protection.

Mistake 5: Moving unnecessary goods

Ideally, before the move, a business will donate, sell, or discard office goods that will not be used in the new building. The mistake occurs when this important step is forgotten. Businesses will pay more to move more items and spend time packing items that generate little-to-no revenue.

Loading boxes for office move

Mistake 6: Not insuring the move

While a company may have existing insurance, the coverage may fail to cover all the office belongings that will be transported during the move. Accidents are a reality of any move, so it’s necessary to obtain additional coverage from the current insurer or from the moving company.

Mistake 7: Not labeling the boxes

During the flurry of packing, labeling the boxes may be forgotten. Since organization is the key to a successful relocation, label the boxes owned by each employee, the box numbers that correspond to the inventory list, and where the boxes go in the new building.

Mistake 8: Forgetting to turn on utilities

Downtime is expensive for companies. Prevent unproductivity in the new office by setting up the utilities in the new building well in advance. Schedule the internet service provider before the IT equipment is delivered. All operational functions should be in place by moving day.

Mistake 9: Hiring an unprofessional mover

Commercial movers with experience understand how to handle the logistics of a major office move. Business owners who aim for a seamless move are advised to obtain quotes from several moving companies, assessing factors, such as availability, affordability, and industry experience.

Reading reviews is especially valuable for learning about other customers’ experiences with a prospective commercial mover. Choose a mover with the desired qualities. Finding and hiring a reputable mover will eliminate the bulk of stress that comes with relocating the business.

Mistake 10: Not communicating moving requirements

Special requirements may be expected when moving to a new building. The commercial mover should be aware of the availability of an accessible elevator, stairs at the origin and destination or access only through a narrow alleyway. Communicate the logistic of the move and avoid costly surprises.

Avoiding these top ten mistakes can reduce the stress that accompanies a major office move. Another important factor that will provide your business with a seamless relocation is hiring an affordable, highly rated and locally based commercial mover, like Chicago Office Movers.

Work with Chicago Office Movers and streamline your corporate relocation. Our moving crews are unionized, licensed, and experienced to deliver maximum customer satisfaction and the most stress-free move possible. Your items are secure in the hands of our background-checked movers.

Our moving trucks are also designed to protect office goods, whether you are moving down the street or across state lines. Each truck features a climate-controlled space, lift gates, and air-ride suspensions. Business customers utilize a tracking system to track their goods as they move.

Chicago Office Movers provides comprehensive moving services. As a leading office mover, we offer not only packing and unpacking services, but also short- and long-term storage options, insurance and service contracts, sturdy boxes, and professional help with planning your office relocation.

Whether you plan to move delicate antiques, fragile IT systems or bulky office furniture, Chicago Office Movers has the experience to make your relocation dreams a reality. Choose us for a budget-friendly move.

Contact our Chicago office today at 312-244-2246 for an upcoming local, long-distance or international move.

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Young Professionals Having Fun in the Office

4 Ways to Make Your Office Move More Fun

Young Professionals Having Fun in the Office

An upcoming office move is an important event for any business. Moving to a bigger building can indicate the company’s growth and success. But the practical logistics of an office move may be less than enjoyable. Here are four tactics to make an office relocation a fun experience.

Staff are comfortably settled in their current workspace; getting accustomed to a new one is undesirable. Plus, personnel will be forced to take a new route to the new office. Employees may need to move. Shifting offices is a big change that may not be exciting—at first.

1. Motivate Employees

Before packing a single office item, it is important to motivate the employees about the upcoming corporate relocation. The first step is to inform staff early on about the office move. Get employees thrilled about the office relocation in any number of fun ways.

It is encouraged to boast about the new office space. Let the employees know about a scenic view, if one is available in the new building. When office equipment will receive an upgrade in the new space, the team members will be eager to try it out.

If it is in the company budget, offer the employees an allowance to buy furniture for their individual offices. The employees will have a say in how their offices will look and function, which gives them reason to feel excited about shifting workspaces.

Offer guided tours of the new office space. If the relocation is local, some employees will be happy to know the new workplace is closer to home or their kids’ schools. A virtual office tour is equally effective when relocating out of state.

Boost morale by providing employees with information about the new neighborhood. Provide menus from local restaurants in the new work vicinity. The staff will be enthusiastic about ordering out from the new office and participating in team lunches and after-work gatherings.

2. Involve Staff

Coworkers Working Together on Move Project

Team members who are involved in the office move are more likely to look forward to it. Hold a meeting to ask the employees what they would like to see in the new office space. An opportunity to provide input gives them a chance to simultaneously unwind and vent.

Welcome suggestions for leisure opportunities in the new office. Examples include a break room featuring a rock-climbing wall, table tennis and video games. Promote the fact that employees will no longer hunch over their desks all day in a hot, humid cubicle.

Staff feel valued when leaders listen to input, from the need for upgraded equipment to improved color schemes. When employees are given the chance to express their voice and feel their opinions matter, they are more likely to contribute to a successful commercial move.

3. Reward Team Members

Personnel who contribute the most to the upcoming office move deserve to be rewarded. Offer prizes and other incentives for team members who submit the best ideas for such things as new meeting room names, color schemes in the new office space or for staying later to help pack.

Incentives may be as simple as new coffee mugs for their new office desks. Or, reward top contributors with the opportunity to pick where they will sit in the new office. Similarly, incentives may include leaving the new office early on a given Friday afternoon.

While preparing for the move, provide office staff with abundant refreshments. Caffeine withdrawal is a downer, as is shelling out hard-earned money for a cup of coffee. Ensure the break room is stocked with fresh coffees, teas, and sodas to keep employees energized throughout the moving process.

4. Celebrate

Getting all the files and office knickknacks packed on time is a milestone in the moving process. Celebrate small wins like these by ordering pizza for the team and incentivizing everyone to dive back in and continue contributing to both the minor and major aspects of the relocation.

Once the relocation is complete, throw an office party to celebrate the success of the move. Take this opportunity to also showcase the new corporate office to clients, customers, and other business associates. Kick off this moment of triumph with a well-earned celebration.

Corporate leaders may also present their hardworking staff with welcome packets for the new office. These packets can include information about the new building, the neighborhood, and local amenities. Consider including personalized water bottles to express gratitude for employees’ contributions.

Remember that once team members have settled into the new office space, it is important to continue showing them that they are valued. Maintain an ample supply of fresh fruits and refreshments so that employees remain hydrated and nourished throughout the workdays.

Work with an Office MoverOffice-Movers-Evanston-IL

Shifting to a new office space is a major milestone for a business. Reaching this point is rarely achieved without the remarkable efforts of team members. The actual move is also significant and cannot be done without reliable help from a reputable moving company, like Chicago Office Movers.

Chicago Office Movers is experienced in commercial moves of all sizes. We have helped move prestigious area companies and universities, such as Alcatel Lucent and the University of Chicago. Our moving crews handle all office goods, equipment, and furniture securely and carefully.

Whether you are moving locally or interstate, our professional moving team will ensure your sensitive equipment is safeguarded. Our moving trucks feature climate-controlled spaces, lift gates and air-ride suspensions. Customers also receive tracking information to follow every step of the move.

Relocating companies will also benefit from our climate-controlled long- and short-term storage facilities. Our moving crews are available for packing and unpacking your office goods. If you need help planning the relocation, our experienced corporate moving specialists will provide assistance.

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Whether you are moving delicate artwork, fragile lab equipment or sensitive IT systems, choose Chicago Office Movers. Given our industry experience and excellent reputation, we will help you relocate affordably and on schedule.

Contact us for your upcoming local, long distance or international move at 312-244-2246 (CHI-CAGO).

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Chicago flag

What Does the Design of the Chicago Flag Represent?

Chicago flag

Chicago is one of the most popular and populated cities in the U.S.  It has one of the most recognizable skylines in the world dominated by the Willis Tower (still called the Sears Tower by locals) and is home to many landmarks and attractions that draw visitors from all over the globe.

About the City of Chicago

Chicago is also a city of historical significance as industry within the city helped develop the western U.S. in the 19th century, and it is a major cultural center as many artists, writers, actors, and musicians have hailed from Chicago.  Many prominent businesses were started in Chicago, including Sears and Marshall Fields (now Macy’s), and many businesses still operate out of Chicago and the surrounding areas including Boeing, Walgreen’s, United Airlines, and more.

This Chicago Flag

When one thinks of Chicago, several visuals may come to mind, including the Sears Tower, the Lakefront, Navy Pier, and the Bean.  One symbol of Chicago that is recognizable across the U.S. is the city flag.

The Chicago flag has a simple design with 3 white stripes, 2 sky blue stripes, and 4 red 6-pointed stars and different representations of this design can be found all throughout the city.  The flag is flown in homes, outside of businesses and government buildings, and at public parks.  It can also be seen in graffiti art and some Chicago residents even incorporate the design into their tattoos as a display of city pride.

The Chicago flag is easily one of the most recognizable city flags in the U.S. and each symbol on the flag represents something about the Windy City.  In this guide, we will cover the history and meaning behind the design of the Chicago flag.  If you own or manage a business and are interested in moving your operation to Chicago, our commercial movers at Chicago Office Movers can help with every aspect of your business relocation.

History of the Chicago Flag

The history of the Chicago flag starts in 1915 when then Mayor of Chicago William Hale Thompson created a municipal flag commission.  This commission was asked to hold an open public competition in which people submitted their design for a Chicago flag.  The winning design was submitted by a man named Wallace Rice and his design was adopted as the city’s flag in 1917.

At its inception in 1917, the Chicago flag had the design that is familiar to us today, but with only two stars.  In 1933, the third star was added and in 1939, the fourth star was added.  The design of the Chicago flag has remained unchanged since the addition of the fourth star.

Chicago Flag Design

Every element of the Chicago flag symbolizes something in relation to the city.  To put it generally, the white and blue stripes represent the city in a geographical sense, the stars represent historical events, and each point of the star represents concepts and virtues related to the historical events.

Bars

The bars on the Chicago flag consist of three white bars at the top, bottom, and middle of the flag, separated by two sky blue bars.  Each of these bars represent the following geographical aspects of the city:

  • Top white bar: The North Side of Chicago
  • Top blue bar: Lake Michigan and the North Branch of the Chicago River
  • Middle white bar: The West Side of Chicago
  • Bottom blue bar: The Great Canal and South Branch of the Chicago River
  • Bottom white bar: The South Side of Chicago

Chicago was established on the shore of Lake Michigan in the early 1800s because the Lake, Chicago River, and the Great Canal that connects the Chicago River to the Des Plaines River made it easy to import and export goods by water.  Because of this, Chicago’s downtown area developed on the shore of Lake Michigan and the city could only spread north, west, and south, creating the main geographical regions of the city known as the North Side, West Side, and South Side.

Stars

The four stars of the Chicago flag represent important historical events that occurred in the first 100 years of the city’s history.  Each of the 6 points of these stars also symbolize virtues, concepts, and accomplishments related to the historical events.

  • The Great Chicago Fire: The first star which was featured on the flag’s original design stands for the Great Chicago Fire that occurred in 1871. The Great Fire occurred when most of the city’s buildings were made from wood and it burnt much of the city to the ground.  Chicago’s subsequent recovery and literal rise from the ashes showed the resiliency and city pride of its residents.  The six points of this star represent transportation, heath, population, finance, commerce, and labor.
  • World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893: The second star from the original 1917 design represents the World’s Columbian Exposition which was held in Chicago in 1893. The exposition was held in Jackson Park in a temporary fairground known as the White City.  It drew over 27 million visitors from around the world between May and October of 1893 and this event had a profound effect on Chicago’s arts, architecture, and self-image.  The six points of this star represent religion, civic sport, beneficence, justice, aesthetics, and education.
  • Century of Progress International Exposition: This third star which was added to the flag in 1933 represents the Century of Progress International Exposition, also known as the Chicago World’s Fair, which was held from May 27, 1933 through October 31, 1934. This fair was held as a celebration of the city’s centennial and the theme was technological innovation.  It was also a celebration of Chicago’s rise to become the second largest city in the U.S. (now third largest behind New York and Los Angeles).  The six points of this star stand for world’s third largest city, convention city, wonder city, great central market, the “I will” motto, and the city motto urbs in horto (city in a garden).
  • Fort Dearborn: The final star added to the flag in 1939 represents the founding of Fort Dearborn in 1803. Fort Dearborn was built along the Chicago River before the formal establishment of the city, and it was reconstructed in 1816 after being destroyed in the Battle of Fort Dearborn in the War of 1812.  While European and American settlers had already reached and settled in the area that became Chicago, the opening of Fort Dearborn resulted in a permanent small settlement being developed in the surrounding area which grew to become Chicago.  The six points of this star represent every political entity that Chicago once belonged to including France 1693, England 1693-1763, Virginia 1763-1778, Northwest Territory 1798, Indiana Territory 1798-1802, and Illinois statehood 1818.

The Chicago city flag remains one of the most popular and recognizable city flags in the U.S. and has been named the second-best flag in multiple surveys, coming in second to the Washington, D.C. city flag.

There have been proposals for adding a fifth star to represent various people and events including the city’s first African American mayor Harold Washington, the founding of the Special Olympics, and even the Chicago Bulls dynasty of the 1990s and Cubs 2016 World Series.  However, it is expected that the city will stick with the current iconic design.

Relocate Your Business to ChicagoChicago Office Movers Truck

Chicago is a great America city that is home to world renowned businesses and institutions and a proud populace.  There are many great reasons to move your business to Chicago, including access to a young and tech savvy workforce, access to the third largest market in the U.S., access to two international airports, and lower taxes than the east and west coast.  If you want to endear your business to the local workforce, customers, and clients, be sure to fly or display the Chicago city flag.

Chicago Office Movers is a professional commercial moving company that can help you move your business to the city of Chicago or the surrounding Chicago suburbs.  Our licensed, union commercial movers will help manage every aspect of your move to make your office relocation as seamless as possible.

You can reach us at 312-244-2246 (CHI-CAGO) for more information about our office relocation and commercial moving services.

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