In the six months since our last full update, progress at the site of the Optima Chicago Center has been moving along nicely. The recently topped-off, DeBartolo Development-built, David Hovey-designed mixed-use tower is quickly becoming a fixture of Chicago's downtown skyline. The tower is tinted green, while its podium base is announced onto the streetscape with a bold red exterior. Phase Two of the Optima Chicago Center will undoubtedly be a fine addition to its blue-and-black sibling located right next door.

Newly topped-off Phase Two of the Optima Chicago Center, middle, as it appears today, image by Forum contributor harryc

Located at the foot of Cityfront Plaza, just steps away from the Magnificent Mile in the heart of downtown, the Optima Chicago Center has joined a host of new highrises in the core. The ongoing intensification of the city centre is all part of the urban transformation that has taken the city by storm over the last decade. 

Phase One and Two, as seen in mid-March 2017, image by Forum contributor harryc

Distinctive in their bold colouration, both Phase One and Phase Two of the Optima Chicago Center feature a two-tone arrangement whereby the relatively muted appearance of the tower portion is juxtaposed with the much more striking podium levels.

Close-up view highlighting the sudden transition from red to green, image by Forum contributor harryc

Viewed above, the podium level is capped with an outdoor terrace where the building makes a sudden transition from red to green. Home to several amenities, including a fitness centre, pool, and spa, the inclusion of public outdoor space will likely be a big draw in summer months, as the view of the park and surrounding skyline will provide residents with good reason to enjoy the space. 

Topped-off Phase Two alongside Phase One, image by Forum contributor harryc

With just a few storeys to go, it will only be a matter of weeks until the the building is complete. The 54-storey residential tower will soon be home to hundreds of new residents. Paired together, the completed Optima Chicago Center will add a great deal of urban vibrancy to the area, and the flood of new residents to the city centre will work to make downtown a desirable option for singles, working professionals, and families. 

SkyriseCities will be sure to return to this project as progress continues. For more information, check out the associated Database file and Forum thread, and as always, feel free to join the conversation in the comments section below.