Mesirow Reimagines Workspace Efficiency with Genius Architectural Walls
What if your office could evolve as quickly as your business does?
For Mesirow Financial, an independent, employee-owned financial services firm headquartered in Chicago, that question sparked a bold reimagining of its workplace. Known for its client-first approach and commitment to community, Mesirow set out to create a space that would inspire its people, reflect its culture, and support the flexibility required by today’s hybrid workforce.
Their transformation began in 2009, Genius architectural walls to create a modern and adaptable office. When a major renovation was planned, Genius remained central to the vision. This time, the focus expanded to include agility, sustainability, and employee well-being.
“This was never just about updating the look of the space,” said Daniel Dempsey, vice president of corporate real estate and facilities at Mesirow. “It was about creating a workplace that reflects who we are, energizes our people, and gives us the flexibility to grow and evolve for years to come.”
A Space Designed for Today’s Workstyles
Mesirow's previous office layout covered six floors filled with private offices, siloed departments, and underused meeting spaces. As hybrid work became the norm, this configuration no longer aligned with how people worked. The space was being consumed rather than optimized.
The real estate team recognized an opportunity to realign the workplace with Mesirow’s culture of mobility, inclusion, and connection.
“Our employees needed more flexibility, better acoustics, and a layout that promoted natural interaction without sacrificing privacy,” said Hannah Ray, senior associate, corporate real estate, Mesirow.
In collaboration with Gensler and KI Wall, Mesirow consolidated its footprint from six floors to four. Genius walls made it possible to completely reconfigure the space while maintaining functionality and improving performance.
The Right Footprint
The new layout features enclosed spaces, including private offices and meeting rooms, thoughtfully arranged to support both collaboration and focused work. Zones such as open lounges and quiet “oasis” areas a range of settings to accommodate various work styles and team needs.
The modular design of the Genius system allows for frequent reconfiguration with minimal disruption. Mesirow proactively stored surplus panels both on-site and off-site to make future changes easy and efficient.
“We rearrange our walls every few months,” said Dempsey. “Genius walls give us that level of control without needing a full buildout each time.”
Balancing Openness and Privacy
With client confidentiality a priority, Mesirow used smart material choices to balance openness with discretion. Gradient film applications provide visual privacy while still allowing natural light to flow through the office space.
The result is a bright, collaborative environment that helps support regulatory compliance while fostering transparency and high-trust interactions.
“We wanted spaces that felt open, yet confidential,” said Ray. “The use of Genius walls helped us achieve both.”
Aesthetic Excellence with Intentional Design
Each finish was carefully selected to align with the Mesirow brand and elevate the overall environment. Freshly painted solid panels, integrated artwork, and premium hardware contribute to a refined and cohesive look.
“We wanted a space that looked and felt elevated,” said Marci Masur, head of corporate real estate, Mesirow. “Every decision helped reinforce that vision.”
Acoustic Performance Built In
Acoustic quality was a key consideration in the redesign. To protect confidentiality and support focused work, private offices and meeting rooms were dispersed strategically throughout the floor plan. This helped minimize sound travel and reduce disruptions in open areas. Private offices were equipped with gaskets at ceiling and wall connections and door frames with perimeter seals, which prevent sound leakage and preserve speech privacy.
The layout was also designed to separate quiet zones from high traffic areas, further enhancing the acoustic experience. Whether employees are meeting with clients or working independently, the space supports concentration without sacrificing comfort or connection.
Sustainability in Practice
Rather than replace their existing infrastructure, Mesirow reused of the Genius panels originally installed there in 2009. These panels were cleaned, repainted, and seamlessly integrated into the updated design.
“You’d never know those walls have been in use for over a decade,” said Dempsey. “They look brand new.”
This reuse approach minimized material waste, shortened the construction timeline, and significantly reduced the environmental impact of the renovation. The outcome reflects both the long-term durability of Genius walls and Mesirow’s commitment to sustainability.
Mesirow also donated reusable items from their space, such as furniture and school supplies, which supported more than 1,000 people in the Chicago community.
A Future-Ready Workplace
The redesigned headquarters reflects a new way of working that is more dynamic and people-centered. With Genius walls as a foundation, Mesirow created a space that supports real-time adaptability, enhances employee experience, and reduces operating costs through smarter design.
“This feels like a totally new place,” said Dempsey. “It’s a space that makes people excited to come in.”
Looking to the Future of Workplace Design
As Mesirow continues to evolve, the new workspace provides a foundation for the business to grow with confidence. Genius walls remain an essential part of the firm's strategy, supporting agility, sustainability, and a high-performing culture.
We couldn’t have moved as quickly or as effectively without KI Wall,” Dempsey added. “They were in lockstep with us from day one.”
