Not all office users are flocking to the newest trophy buildings, particularly outside of urban centers. Taylor Johnson recently pitched a trend identified by client NAI Hiffman on the growing demand for single-story properties, which are driving suburban Chicago leasing with a vacancy rate of 13.4% in third-quarter 2025, well below the more-than-26% rate seen across the broader suburban market. And leases signed for this asset type ended the third quarter at a level nearly four times higher than the same period in 2023. Bisnow responded with interest, and we connected the reporter with Steve Chrastka, whose insights were supplemented with fresh data from NAI Hiffman’s research team. The resulting feature spotlighted why single-story buildings, often offering private entrances, dedicated HVAC systems and flexible lease terms, are emerging as one of Chicagoland’s most resilient suburban office product types.
