McHugh in the News:
McHugh Adds "Madhouse on Madison" to United Center
December 1, 2009
CHICAGO - "Cold Steel on Ice" was replaced, at least temporarily, by hot steel on concrete as James McHugh Construction Co. transformed the 300 level of Chicago's United Center into the Madhouse on Madison in just three months.
McHugh completed the renovation of the United Center's 300 level in time for the preseason games for both the Chicago Bulls and the Chicago Blackhawks, who share tenancy of the stadium. 'Madhouse on Madison' was the nickname of the teams' storied previous home, the Chicago Stadium.
The highlight of the renovation is the addition of The Madhouse, two bars where fans can watch the game while enjoying their favorite beverage. In the northwest and southeast corners of the arena's top level, McHugh teams removed seats, took out precast concrete risers, filled in the area with level concrete floors, and added railing and glass partitions. The standing bars feature drink rails the look out onto the action in the stadium.
Construction teams also gave a facelift to the entire 300 level concourse area to add to the "Madhouse" theme. This included fresh coats of paint; new signage; new plastic laminate fronts with updated graphics for more than 20 concession areas; and stainless steel corner guards and fresh décor at the opening to the seating areas.
McHugh worked with architects 360 Architecture Inc., Kansas City, Mo., and owner representative IFG, Chicago, for owner The United Center Joint Venture.
Fifteen years ago, McHugh was part of the original construction team for the United Center as the concrete contractor for the arena.
Founded in 1897, McHugh is one of Chicago's oldest and largest general contracting, construction management and consulting firms. Current projects include the high-profile Aqua mixed-use high-rise with distinctive rippled exterior; the Fox River Bridge on the Reagan Memorial Tollway; and the Alta and Cirrus buildings at the Kinzie Station development in the West Loop.
