Art Institute of Chicago Modern Wing Infrastructure

Level-1 delivered integrated infrastructure to support operations, safety, and communications in a globally renowned museum expansion.

Originally conceived as a cultural beacon and architectural landmark, the Modern Wing of the Art Institute of Chicago represents a convergence of form, light, and civic ambition. Designed by Renzo Piano with Architect of Record Dina Griffin, the 264,000-square-foot expansion doubled the museum’s gallery space and ushered in a new era for its collection of modern and contemporary art. The project added education spaces, public amenities, and a luminous, contemplative experience rooted in architectural restraint and spatial generosity. 

To match the expectations of a global institution, Level-1 Global Solutions was selected to engineer and implement the technology infrastructure underpinning the new wing’s operations. Working in collaboration with Gibson Electric and under the direction of the architecture and construction teams, our scope encompassed low-voltage systems integration to support voice, data, and life-safety functions in a space where aesthetics, performance, and preservation coexist. 

Our goal was to ensure that technology remained unobtrusive yet powerful capable of supporting security, fire protection, visitor communications, curatorial coordination, and educational programming without compromising the visual or acoustic integrity of the museum’s environment. 

What We Delivered

• Engineering, furnishing, and installation of low-voltage telecommunications infrastructure for voice and data 
• Integration of life safety and fire alarm systems in alignment with museum preservation standards 
• Technology planning and coordination with the Architect of Record, general contractor, and electrical subcontractor 
• Seamless infrastructure designed to disappear within the minimalist and light-filled geometry of the Modern Wing 
• Support for audiovisual and surveillance systems necessary to protect and serve patrons and artworks alike 

By embedding resilient technology systems within the fabric of a landmark cultural space, Level-1 enabled the Modern Wing to operate at the highest standard of public and institutional performance. The infrastructure we delivered ensures seamless communications, secure operations, and life-safety support for one of the world’s leading art museums without compromising the architectural purity or spatial intent of its design. Our work supports the millions of annual visitors, students, artists, architects, and everyday Chicagoans who engage with this landmark not just as a museum, but as an extension of the city’s architectural imagination.