New World Design prepared these design schemes for a client assessing the potential uses for an underutilized site on Michigan Ave. in Chicago. The schemes included both an Office Tower and a Hotel Tower.

The design study sought to maximize the practical buildable envelope, capitalize on the functional potential, create pedestrian permeation through the site (a client requirement) and create an architecture that was contextually responsive to the building site.

The site is bookended by two landmark structures (one in the classical vocabulary, the other in art deco). Rather than compete with either of these powerful styles, it seemed more appropriate to utilize an architecture that responded to the overall mass without borrowing from the details. The designs presented create architectural and spacial separations from the neighboring historic structures while providing scale and material continuity for the unique “cliff face” of this segment of Michigan Ave.

Ultimately, these designs seek to continue with the grand tradition of structures on Michigan Avenue by reinforcing the historic urban fabric, creating architectural richness and bolstering the pedestrian experience.

Unbuilt, 2018