Summit Design + Build In the News

Highlights of how we are shaping the construction industry one project at a time.

More of Summit in the news

Apr 17

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Celebrating 20 Years of Summit Design + Build

By Hayley Sumner Chicago, News

Celebrating Twenty Years of Summit Design + Build

Two decades of successfully building spaces where people and business thrive.

Summit Design + Build, a leading commercial general contractor, is proud to celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2025. Over the past two decades, Summit has built a reputation for excellence, innovation, and integrity in the construction industry, delivering high-quality projects across a range of sectors, including commercial, industrial, multifamily, hospitality, and adaptive reuse.

Since its founding in 2005, Summit Design + Build has grown from a small, ambitious team into a nationally recognized firm with a strong presence in Chicago, Austin, Tampa, and North Carolina. With a commitment to craftsmanship, collaboration, and client success, the firm has successfully completed hundreds of projects that shape communities and redefine skylines.

The company’s success and vision is lead by its executive team, including Adam Miller, President and Founder, Nick Jones, CFO, Deanna Pegoraro, Vice President of Corporate, Tony Denofrio, Vice President of Field Operations, Kevin Criner, Vice President of Preconstruction & Estimating, and Glenn Miles, Vice President of Project Management, whose commitment to fostering a culture of integrity and collaboration has guided the company’s growth over the years.

Summit Design + Build has remained at the forefront of the construction industry by embracing new technologies, sustainable building practices, and a client-first approach. The company takes pride in its ability to adapt to industry changes while staying true to its core values of integrity, teamwork, and accountability.

To tap into Summit Design + Build’s deep bench of knowledge and expertise for your next construction project, reach out to our preconstruction team.

Feb 12

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Summit Design + Build Expands Chicago Team

By Hayley Sumner Chicago, News

Summit hires Business Development Manager in Chicago

Summit Design + Build, is pleased to announce the addition of Summer Stevens as Business Development Manager, leading growth and client relations in the Chicago market.

Meet Summer Stevens

Summer brings extensive industry experience to Summit, having previously served as Business Development and Marketing Coordinator at Key Construction in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Her expertise in fostering strong client relationships, identifying new opportunities, and driving strategic partnerships will be instrumental in further expanding Summit’s presence in the Chicago area.

In her new role, Summer will focus on expanding Summit’s footprint in key sectors, cultivating new business opportunities, and reinforcing the firm’s reputation for excellence in construction and development.

Jan 14

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Featherfist Build-Out Completion

By Hayley Sumner Chicago, News

Summit Design + Build Completes Build Out For Featherfist

Summit Design + Build has successfully completed the transformation of a vacant building into a new, functional facility for Featherfist, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving and empowering Chicago’s homeless community. The renovated facility, located at 2243 East 75th Street, expands Featherfist’s ability to provide vital resources and support to those in need on the city’s South Side.

The project included the integration of the newly renovated 2243 East 75th Street facility with Featherfist’s existing offices at 2255 East 75th Street through an internal doorway connection. This expansion transforms the previously vacant building into approximately 7,500 square feet of modern office space, including six office workspaces, two bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a conference room.

The renovation involved selective demolition of existing interior partitions, plumbing systems, and finishes, followed by the construction of new interior partitions, ceilings, lighting fixtures, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and power systems. An overhead door was also added to the exterior entry vestibule of the 2255 East 75th Street building, enhancing the connectivity and functionality of the two spaces.

With its enhanced infrastructure and functionality, the renovated facility will serve as a hub for Featherfist to continue providing critical services to Chicago’s homeless population, including housing assistance, behavioral health, case management, and support programs.

BE Architects served as the project architect.

Learn more about Featherfist here.

About Featherfist

Founded in 1984 with the mission of working to end homelessness in Chicago, Featherfist helps those in need discover the “power & purpose” to change their lives. Homeless individuals, families, veterans, the chronically homeless, and those with physical and/or mental health barriers all require very different types of assistance to become self-supporting and independent. Featherfist understands the complexities involved in each individual case and has more than 41 years of experience to solve problems as they arise.

Featherfist Imagery

Dec 20

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Fulton Market Boom and Evolution

By Jason Wilson News

The Evolution of Fulton Market: A Hub of Innovation and Growth

Fulton Market, once a district known for meatpacking and food distribution, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past few decades.

Today, it stands as one of Chicago’s most vibrant neighborhoods, blending its industrial roots with modern developments that have made it a prime destination for businesses, residents, and visitors alike.

Summit Design and Build was born in the heart of this booming area, in 2005. Ever since, Summit has played a role in shaping Fulton Market and the broader city of Chicago’s infrastructure.

A Brief history of Fulton Market

Originally established in the 19th century, Fulton Market was the epicenter of Chicago’s meatpacking industry. With its proximity to the Chicago River and rail lines, it was the perfect location for warehouses and distribution centers. For years, the district was a bustling hub of industry, supplying food products to much of the Midwest.

However, by the late 20th century, changes in the food distribution industry and shifts in urban development began to take their toll on the neighborhood. Many warehouses were abandoned, and the area saw a decline in its original purpose.

Fulton Market, once a district known for meatpacking and food distribution, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past few decades.

Summit Design and Build was born in the heart of this booming area, in 2005. Ever since, Summit has played a role in shaping Fulton Market and the broader city of Chicago’s infrastructure.

The Boom Begins

The real shift in Fulton Market began in the early 2000s when creative businesses and artists started moving into the area, attracted by the large industrial spaces and proximity to downtown. Around the same time, the city recognized the potential of the neighborhood and invested in infrastructure improvements. With the opening of trendy restaurants and office spaces, the neighborhood’s revival began to accelerate.

Then came the tech and corporate boom. Google’s decision to open a Midwest headquarters in Fulton Market in 2015 was a turning point. The addition of the Morgan CTA “L” stop in Fulton Market was instrumental in making the area a destination as well as an easy to reach neighborhood.

This major move, coupled with popular companies such as McDonald’s relocating their global headquarters to the neighborhood, signaled Fulton Market’s arrival as a premier business hub in Chicago.

Recent zoning changes approved by the Alderman to permit large-scale residential development have significantly enhanced Fulton Market’s growth, livability, and walkability.

“The area offered affordable real estate opportunities that we could renovate while maintaining proximity to downtown Chicago without the Loop’s premium costs. The neighborhood was primed for redevelopment, making it an ideal area for us to grow in…”

– Adam Miller

The Role of Summit Design + Build

As one of the leading general contracting companies in the area, Summit Design and Build has been a part of Fulton Market’s growth from the very beginning.

When speaking with Adam Miller, President of Summit Design and Build he explained they created in Fulton Market back when “…no one really knew what the area was, most of the businesses were meat packers or people in the meat, produce, and broader food industry.”

“The area offered affordable real estate opportunities that we could renovate while maintaining proximity to downtown Chicago without the Loop’s premium costs. The neighborhood was primed for redevelopment, making it an ideal area for us to grow in. We were one of the newer businesses to move into the neighborhood, well ahead of the upcoming boom.”

Summit’s strategic location in the center of Fulton Market provides a unique perspective on its evolution. From transforming historic warehouses into modern office spaces to constructing state-of-the-art residential and commercial buildings, Summit has been instrumental in many high-profile projects.

“We have completed forty-seven focusing on renovating existing heavy timber masonry buildings and converting them into modern offices, retail spaces, restaurants, and residential units – all contributing to the West Loop’s transformation.

Our first major project was 1313 W Randolph, an industrial building renovation completed post-recession that marked one of our first conversions. We went on to convert the City Winery space, transforming an industrial building into a restaurant, event space, and winery. Another notable project on Randolph Street eventually became home to Girl and the Goat restaurant, now a Chicago culinary landmark.

We also converted a six-story food processing building into one of Chicago’s first WeWork locations, and completed 905 W Fulton Market, a substantial addition to an existing building that became the headquarters for Mondelez.”

We’re committed to staying and growing in Fulton Market. We built our new office building with the specific intent to grow and thrive in Chicago. There’s significant development happening in both Fulton Market and Chicago as a whole, and we want to be an integral part of that continued growth.

– Adam Miller on Summit’s future vision

Summit’s work isn’t solely limited to Fulton Market. With projects spanning across Chicago and the country, Summit brings expertise in urban development, adaptive reuse, and innovative design to every build. As the company continues to expand, its roots in Fulton Market remain a key part of who they are—a company dedicated to shaping the future while respecting the history that brought them here.

Adam Miller remarked when asked about the challenges of working in a historic district:

“Working in Fulton Market presents unique challenges, particularly in maintaining and preserving the existing facades of buildings to meet city requirements. We work closely with the Chicago Landmark Commission to ensure our projects both maintain the historic character of the neighborhood while meeting modern needs. This careful balance between old and new is exactly what makes Fulton Market so desirable today – it’s created a perfect blend of historic architecture and contemporary development.”

On Summit’s future vision:

“We’re committed to staying and growing in Fulton Market. We built our new office building with the specific intent to grow and thrive in Chicago. There’s significant development happening in both Fulton Market and Chicago as a whole, and we want to be an integral part of that continued growth.”

On leveraging Chicago success in other markets:

“Being from the Midwest gives us real credibility when we work in other parts of the country. People associate the Midwest with hard work, honesty, and high-quality results – which is accurate. Plus, being based in one of Chicago’s top two or three fastest-growing neighborhoods, where we can walk to incredible dining, fitness, shopping, and business destinations, demonstrates our understanding of what makes urban developments truly successful.”

Looking Ahead

Fulton Market shows no signs of slowing down. With new residential developments, hotels, and a growing number of corporate offices, it’s clear that the area’s growth is far from over. For companies like Summit Design + Build, this means endless opportunities to continue shaping one of Chicago’s most dynamic neighborhoods.

As we look toward the future, Summit remains committed to providing the highest level of quality and service in every project undertaken.

Summit Design and Build is proud to call Fulton Market home. Our team continues to contribute to the area’s incredible transformation and looks forward to building a lasting legacy in this ever-evolving neighborhood.

Author: Sylvia Miller

Dec 09

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Breaking Ground at 537 W Drummond

By Hayley Sumner Chicago, News

Summit Design + Build Kicks Off Lincoln Park Multifamily Project

Summit Design + Build has officially broke ground at 537 W. Drummond, a seven-story residential development coming to the Lincoln Park neighborhood in Chicago, IL.

This new development will stand 80 feet tall and will provide 84 new market-rate units, split into 12 studios, 54 one-beds, and 18 two-beds. The ground floor will contain resident amenities including a fitness room, conference and coworking spaces, 84 bike parking spaces, and 52 car parking spaces.

Located at the site of the historic Covent Theater that was situated behind the Covent Hotel, the rich history serves as the perfect point of inspiration and site for reimagined living in the Lincoln Park neighborhood.

Moyer Properties is serving as the project developer, ParkFowler Plus as the project architect, Catapult Real Estate Solutions as the owner’s representative, Cross Street as the broker, and Principal Asset Management for the construction financing.

Groundbreaking Imagery

Dec 09

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Glen Oak Country Club Clubhouse Renovation

By Hayley Sumner Chicago, News

Summit Design + Build Begins Construction At Glen Oak Country Club

Summit Design + Build recently commenced renovations on the historic clubhouse at the Glen Oak Country Club in Glen Ellyn, IL. Established in 1911, the private club currently features an 18-hole golf course, a two-story sports complex, multiple dining areas, a skeet & trap shooting lodge, and a swimming pool.

The two-story, 45,597-square-foot clubhouse will undergo a complex remodel including renovations of the dining areas, kitchen, offices, restrooms, the addition of new indoor/outdoor dining areas, a new indoor/outdoor bar, and a lobby addition with a new grand staircase and elevator, as well as exterior improvements.

Chipman Design Architecture Inc. will be serving as the project architect and CBRE is serving as the Owner’s Representative. The renovation of the clubhouse is expected to be completed in the late summer of 2025.

Nov 19

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Alessi Bakery Construction Commencement

By Hayley Sumner Florida, News

Summit Design + Build Begins Construction Of Alessi Bakery

Summit Design + Build recently began the build-out for the new location for Alessi Bakery a Tampa, FL staple for over 100 years.

The bakery is set to be relocated to the storied Tampa Letter Carriers building, which will undergo a comprehensive renovation to expand their baking capabilities and introduce exciting new features, including an expanded menu, a coffee bar, a liquor bar, and improvements to the current parking. Enhancements to the building will also include the addition of a mezzanine, new walk-in coolers and freezers, and an exterior patio.

JVB Architect, LLC is serving as the project architect, and completion is expected in mid-2025.

Oct 02

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Farm Foundation Innovation & Education Center Completion

By Hayley Sumner Florida, News

Farm Foundation Unveils Cutting-Edge Innovation & Education Center

Summit Design + Build recently celebrated the ribbon cutting for Farm Foundation’s Innovation and Education Center, located on the Casey family farm in Libertyville, IL. With a deep family history situated on this property, Farm Foundation pledged to keep the Casey name living in the form of educating people about the importance of agricultural systems in our country, as well as inspiring the next generation to create a lasting effect on our planet.

The ribbon cutting was attended by Summit Design + Build President, Adam Miller and Project Superintendent, Rick Heibel as well as numerous notable agriculture leaders. The event featured speakers including Shari Rogge-Fidler, Farm Foundation President & CEO, Dan Basse, Farm Foundation Chairman, Honorable Michael Johanns, former United States Secretary of Agriculture, Ambassador Darci Vetter, Head of Global Public Policy at PepsiCo, and Chancellor Robert Jones, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

This 14-acre campus is home to a modern barn structure that feature a media room, demonstration kitchen, and office space, as well as house various educational programs aimed to address the critical issues shaping the future of agriculture and our food systems.

Kahler Slater served as the project architect, and JLL served as the property manager.

Farm Foundation Imagery

Sep 20

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Leland South Congress Sales Gallery Completion

By Hayley Sumner News, Texas

Summit Design + Build Completes Leland South Congress Sales Gallery

Summit Design + Build has announced the completion of the Leland South Congress sales gallery, located in Austin’s vibrant South Congress neighborhood.

The Leland South Congress Sales Center serves as a visual introduction to the luxurious living experience available within the future Leland development. The sales center boasts a thoughtfully designed interior, showcasing meticulously crafted spaces that emphasize modern luxury and functional elegance. Key areas such as the kitchen, bathroom, and amenities have been curated to reflect the high standards of quality and design for which Leland is known.

Intracorp served as the developer and Kirksey Architecture served as the project architect.

Inquire more about living at Leland South Congress here.

Leland South Congress Sales Gallery Imagery

Jun 27

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Completion of Two Burdeen’s Jewelry Locations in Chicago’s Gold Coast

By Hayley Sumner News

Summit Design + Build Completes Two Burdeen’s Jewelry Locations in Chicago’s Gold Coast

Summit Design + Build recently completed the adaptive reuse for Burdeen’s Jewelry, located at 120 E. Oak Street in the Historic Gold Coast, as well as interior alterations to the existing Burdeen’s Jewelry located at 11 E. Walton in the base of the Waldorf Astoria. The 120 E. Oak project consisted of the interior build-out for Burdeen’s, as well as two luxury flagship stores situated on either side.

Located in the heart of Chicago’s luxury shopping destination, as well as steps away from Lake Michigan and Oak Street Beach, Burdeen’s is the perfect location to visit. The two-story luxury jewelry store located at 120 E Oak consists of over 10,000 sf of retail space. It shares an outer structure and shell with Panerai and IWC. Some of the luxurious features include a watchmaking studio, a transparent glass floor, and a large skylight to illuminate the space with natural sunlight. This is the fourth location for Burdeen’s Jewelry in the Chicago area. Hirsch MPG served as the project architect.

The new space at 11 E Walton features individual luxury brand spaces for Jaeger-LeCoultre, Roger Dubuis, and Piaget. Dunne Kozlowski served as the project architect.