It’s been quite a year! There is no better way to start the year off right than taking a moment to reflect on the accomplishments, milestones, and moments that made up the past year, and 2023 is no exception.

Not only has our business grown over the last year, but our culture and team continue to cultivate and flourish. Read on as we recap this years highlights, and look forward to what comes next for BIG.

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THE PLACES

This year, our collective efforts resulted in the successful completion of over 1.89 million square feet of construction across 85 projects. These projects span a diverse range of typologies, showcasing our versatility in delivering high-quality outcomes in sectors such as law, technology, healthcare, finance, and more.

We also completed two brand-new typologies this year! This summer, BIG completed Spacetime Floatation Center, a float spa and wellness space that incorporates unique materiality and specialty requirements to create a refined, seamless, and revitalizing spa space. 

We also collaborated with Cannect Wellness to turn a warehouse in Franklin Park into the first phase of a fully operating cannabis grow lab in only 27 weeks. We are incredibly proud to have been a part of the amazing team responsible for mobilizing this groundbreaking Chicago project.

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THE PEOPLE

At BIG, we believe that our work is more than just constructing buildings; it's about fostering connections and building trust within our community.  We strive to build relationships and trust through our projects and we pride ourselves on all of the connections and partnerships we've fostered this year. 

Our office culture revolves around continuous learning, mentorship, and career growth. In 2023, we extended our commitment to the next generation by welcoming interns into our workspace. Teaming up with Genseys, we provided local high school student Zachary valuable insights into project management through meaningful work experience and skills training. Additionally, two interns from local universities joined us over the summer, contributing fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to our dynamic team.

This summer, BIG team members Charlie Murphy, Kaitlyne Diaz, and Jason Bernstein visited their alma mater,  University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, to spread the word about BIG and introduce students to a career in construction.

Our Team expanded this year! The year 2023 marked significant growth for BIG as we welcomed ten new full-time hires into our office. Representing a diverse range of specialties and backgrounds, our new team members have proven to be invaluable assets, contributing to our continued success.

In addition to new hires, our current employees were recognized with well-deserved promotions for their hard work in new roles. In addition to welcoming new talent, we proudly recognize our existing employees' dedication and hard work. Madison Meredith earned a well-deserved promotion to Project Manager. We have been able to witness and support Jason Bernstein's journey from intern to Project Engineer. Jacob Straw's elevation to Assistant Project Manager further reinforces our dedication to recognizing and nurturing talent from within our organization.

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THE PURPOSE 

At BIG, our dedication to the Chicagoland community goes beyond construction projects. In 2023, we continued our tradition of giving back to causes close to our hearts, actively participating in events and initiatives that make a positive impact in our community.

Once again, the BIG team rallied together to participate in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk. Rain or shine, our team walked five miles in a powerful display of support for breast cancer awareness. What's even more commendable is the incredible fundraising effort that accompanied our strides, raising over $32,000 to contribute to this vital cause.

In December, we directed our efforts towards supporting Cradles to Crayons, a Chicago-area nonprofit dedicated to assisting local children facing clothing insecurity and basic needs. Surpassing our $1,000 goal, we achieved this through a combination of $797 in monetary donations, over $300 in Amazon purchases, and generous in-house contributions.

BIG proudly sponsored and participated in various events with local organizations that hold a special place in our hearts. As a headlining sponsor of the Reudmond Foundation's annual boxing match, we got in the ring in support of pancreatic cancer research. Additionally, we showed our support for the Pete Kandens/Illinois Holocaust Museum & Ed Center, participated in the DIFFA lip sync event, contributed to Chicago's rescue animals through the PAW Gala, and teed off for a cause at the IFMA golf outing.

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MORE IN 2024

Looking forward, BIG remains unwavering in its pursuit of excellence, community service, and innovation. As we continue to shape spaces and build connections, we are excited for the opportunities that lie ahead in 2024. Our journey goes beyond construction; it is about creating lasting impressions, fostering relationships, and contributing to a community we hold dear. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of our journey, and we look forward to another year of growth, collaboration, and success!