[2][3] It was announced that the consulate would close in 2012 as part of a government-mandated downsizing of the Swiss diplomatic presence to reduce expenses.

[4] Although the decision was protested by the Swiss Club of Chicago, who petitioned for the consulate to stay open,[5] and debates were held in the Swiss Parliament to re-evaluate the cutbacks in general,[6] the shutdown was ultimately approved, with Parliament deciding that an honorary consulate would be set up in its place.

[3] However, increased Swiss investment in Chicago and surrounding areas led to an announcement in 2018 that the consulate would be reopened.

The current chancery, located in the John Hancock Center, was designed by HHF Architects and Kwong Von Glinow.

[9] The interior, inspired by the works of Swiss-American architect Otto Kolb [de], has gained some coverage for its use of modernism, lighting, and a "green core".