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The birthplace of the skyscraper is naturally no stranger to heights. Chicago's Willis Tower was the world's tallest building for nearly 25 years, and though the recession hit the housing market of America's third largest city hard, an economic rebound is afoot. The restoration in Chicago's fortunes has produced one of the most anticipated residential developments in American history. Set to become the city's third tallest building upon completion in 2020, Vista Tower is about to make a massive impact in the hearts and minds of Chicagoans.
Though construction has been underway for weeks, a ceremonial ground breaking was held earlier this week, marking the official start of works for the 95-storey building. The 362-metre (1,186-foot) tower brings together real estate's big guns — local developer Magellan Development Group has partnered with China's Wanda Group to make the project possible. It represents the biggest Chinese real estate investment in the United States.
Vista Tower's interior program is mainly comprised of 406 luxury condominiums, which start at one million dollars. Residents will be treated to a sprawling amenity level on the 47th floor, where they can utilize the fitness centre, outdoor pool deck, theatre, wine tasting room, games room, lounging areas, and private dining suite at their leisure. The five-star Wanda Vista hotel, positioned on the first dozen or so floors, is set to contain 192 rooms, with guests receiving access to the shui day spa, gymnasium, pool, and garden terrace on levels 10 and 11.
In the tallest building ever designed by a woman, Jeanne Gang of Studio Gang Architects incorporates her trademark sculptural vernacular that made Aqua Tower an instant landmark. A crystalline fusion of three volumes differing in height, the geometric glass facade will reflect the hues of the city, lake, and sky. The coloured glass gradient responds to the corresponding level of solar heat gain predicted, acting as a line of defense against the summer sun. The angles and protrusions of the tower maximized the opportunity for corner suites, which offer the best views in the house. The tower will no doubt be a stunner, serving not only to enhance the view of the skyline from the lake, but strengthen Chicago's supertall supremacy.
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