December 3, 2024 | Elk Grove Village, Illinois - Stern Pinball Inc., a leading name in the pinball industry, has unveiled a striking new feature at its Elk Grove Village headquarters: a seven-foot-diameter steel pinball weighing 800 pounds. This bold installation marks a significant facelift for the company's building exterior, blending artistic flair with Stern's iconic pinball legacy.
George Gomez, a key figure at Stern Pinball, spearheaded the innovative project. “We needed to give our building a facelift, and it felt natural to incorporate something that represents who we are,” Gomez explained. Inspired by Chicago’s famous “Bean” sculpture downtown, the idea of installing a giant pinball outside the building emerged as a unique photo opportunity for visitors.
After identifying the perfect manufacturer, the team confirmed that a seven-foot ball would be ideal. “We asked, ‘How big of a ball can you make?’ and they said, ‘We could go as far as seven feet in diameter, so that would be perfect,’” Gomez recounted. The massive steel sphere was carefully shipped in a crate, which the Stern team dismantled on-site to retrieve the impressive pinball.
The installation process was both meticulous and daring. Utilizing a forklift, the team strapped the hefty ball and carefully maneuvered it to the designated area. “We brought in a forklift, strapped the ball, lifted it up, then rolled it over to the area. There and back again,” Gomez detailed. Ensuring safety was paramount; the unit was securely bolted down to prevent any accidents. “Bolted the unit down so nobody would get hurt,” he added.
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The new steel pinball is not just a static display but an interactive centerpiece for Stern's upcoming Pinball Expo Tour. “When the pinball actually hits the ground, it’s going to be the pinball. The Pinball Expo Tour starts this year. They'll be super pumped about seeing the ball and taking pictures with it,” Gomez enthused. The installation promises to attract pinball enthusiasts and curious visitors alike, offering a memorable photo opportunity reminiscent of the iconic Bean. Beyond the giant pinball, the Elk Grove Village building now boasts an array of enhancements. Stern’s signature signs flank both sides of the building, complementing the artistic window displays. The entire exterior is illuminated at night, transforming the headquarters into a visually stunning landmark. “The exterior of this building is just absolutely gorgeous. We have art in the windows. It is illuminated at night and it’s a whole new experience,” Gomez proudly stated. |
Employees and visitors have already expressed excitement over the transformation. “Everybody tries to roll the 800-pound pinball down Bussey Road. A great exciting moment, touching it, knowing it's real and it's in place,” shared one of the installation team members. The combination of robust design and playful spirit encapsulates Stern Pinball’s commitment to innovation and community engagement. As Stern Pinball Inc. continues to captivate audiences with its creative endeavors, the new steel pinball stands as a testament to the company’s dedication to blending tradition with modernity. Whether you’re a pinball aficionado or simply looking for a unique photo op, Stern’s revamped Elk Grove Village headquarters is poised to become a must-visit destination. For more information about Stern Pinball Inc. and upcoming events, visit their official website.