University of Illinois Philanthropy Center

Champaign, IL

An innovative philanthropic space for the University of Illinois and its three campuses.

Dedicated to advancing the interest and welfare of the university, the University of Illinois Foundation’s new headquarters brings its staff together in a single location and serves as a learning hub for the advancement community. The flexible design provides employee workspaces, a welcoming atrium, a terrace, and areas for collaboration, training, and professional development.

As the first of three new buildings within a development south of the main campus, it forms a strong visual connection to the existing structures. To convey the university’s rich history and culture, the headquarters features framed views of the surrounding landscape, research park, and main campus. The new building acts as the gateway to this research park, which will host more than 120 companies, employing students and full-time technology professionals in partnership with the University of Illinois.

Inspired by the prairie landscape, natural materials and a warm color palette are complemented by neutral earthen tones throughout the space to create an elegant and inviting experience for staff, students, and donors.

“Our vision was to create a place, not simply a space. This was a once in a generation opportunity to celebrate the impact of philanthropy at the University of Illinois in an environment that welcomed visitors and inspired staff. Perkins Eastman—and the entire design/build team—embraced our shared vision and delivered a place that is elegant, innovative, and functional and will serve the University of Illinois for decades.” —James H. Moore, Jr., President and CEO, University of Illinois Foundation

Project Facts

Client:

University of Illinois Foundation

Size:

60,000 sf

Services:

Planning, Programming, Architecture, Interior Design

Sustainability:

LEED Gold certified, targeting WELL

Practice Areas:

College + University, Workplace

Region:

United States

Studios:

Chicago

Awards

2025 Illinois Real Estate Journal Award for Office-Suburban projects

2025 Merit Award finalist: "Commercial Construction Under $50 million," Chicago Building Congress