The next generation of highrise office space dismisses utilitarian workplaces and instead embraces amenity-packed environments where workers can socialize and ease their stress levels. And Chicago — a city that has long embodied advanced engineering techniques and skyscraper innovation — is the location of a new tower that welcomes this new order of office space with open arms.

Rendering of 151 North Franklin, image via John Ronan Architects

The John Buck Company has implanted their wisdom at 151 North Franklin, appointing John Ronan Architects and Adamson Associates to carry out their vision for a 35-storey building. Together, they've assembled a plan that calls for a minimalist and sleek exterior design that implements rounded corners, high-quality glass curtain wall, and a solid stone base. The smooth expanses of glass will increase the permeability of the structure, allowing sunlight to naturally illuminate each level.

The steel and concrete construction of 151 North Franklin, image by Forum contributor harryc

Most of the middle floor plates of the upcoming 806,000-square-foot building have been leased, while the upper 11 floors and lower few floors are still available to prospective tenants. Workers will enjoy access to numerous outdoor and collaborative spaces scattered throughout the building. A high-end restaurant and casual cafe will provide on-site dining options to employees, who can then work off their consumed calories in the bright and airy fitness centre. An outdoor covered "urban room" will serve as a welcoming public gesture to people entering the building, while a rooftop sky garden provides an ideal setting for daytime breaks and private events.

The office tower is rising next to the residential 215 West Lake, image by Forum contributor harryc

A new batch of photos from Forum contributor harryc shows the building progressing skyward, with ongoing steel assembly keeping pace with the rise of the large central core. Workers are seen carefully placing each steel I-beam into position, lifted by the tower crane, then riveting and connecting the vertical pieces together. Construction is expected to be complete in 2017.

Steel beams are fastened at the site, image by Forum contributor harryc

Additional images and information can be found in the Database file linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion or share your photos? Check out the associated Forum thread or leave a comment at the bottom of this page.