Next Exit. A New Chapter
in McDonald's History

When McDonald's decided to move its headquarters after nearly half a century, to Chicago's historic West Loop, it marked a change in the direction of the company. This future-forward decision set in motion many changes that will propel the giant on a new journey.

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As part of that effort, Studio O+A developed a story of The Next Exit which embodies both the nostalgia of an American road trip experience and that of the daring leap into the future. 

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The pattern that welcomes visitors at the entry stairway is a tribute to the most popular of McDonald's offering, The Big Mac. The design deconstructs this popular food item into abstract shapes and colors, leaving a hint of connection.

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A variety of fabrication techniques were used in these large-scale installations to delight the visitor and bring an element of surprise to the visiting public. Installations like the penny press, the resin packaging wall, and the whimsical toy cabinet, evoke the feeling of childhood playfulness, yet come together in the sophisticated use of materials and design aesthetics.

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