The Chicago Architecture hosts Open House Chicago, a free public festival which showcases 350 downtown Chicago architectural gems, every October. From well known skyscrapers, to repurposed mansions, contemporary high-rises, and historic landmarks, get a behind the scenes look at stunning Chicago architecture across 39 neighborhoods. This year, check out these stunning residential apartment buildings garnering attention from the architecture world for their exemplary design.
Essex on the Park
This Michigan Avenue high rise first broke ground in 2017 and was designed by Chicago based firm, Hartshorne Plunkard. Essex rises 680 feet and offers sweeping views of Grant Park and Lake Michigan. Among many other resort inspired amenities, the crowned jewel of Essex on the Park is the four story indoor winter garden, complete with an infinity pool overlooking the park.
Courtesy of Essex on the Park
Aqua
This internationally acclaimed mixed use skyscraper was designed by Jeanne Gang and James Loewenberg, is 859 feet tall, and functions as apartment rentals, condos, 55,000 square feet of retail and commercial office space, and a luxury hotel concept, Radisson Blu Aqua. The amenity deck spans over 82,000 square feet and features indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, gazebos, lounges, a rooftop running track, and more. Residents and hotel guests enjoy direct access to the Pedway as well. Aqua has won numerous awards for its innovative design, including the 2009 Emoris “Skyscraper of the Year” award.
The Alfred
Before it was converted into 176 luxury apartment rentals last year, The Alfred was known as the Hartman Building, originally built in 1924. Each unit has been renovated with modern finishes but retains some of its historic character, such as the herringbone inlays in the flooring and Chicago style windows. It is one of several Loop office buildings this year that has been successfully converted into luxury rentals.
465 N Park
Designed by Pappageorge Haymes Partners in 2016, this Streeterville apartment high rise is as eye-catching on the inside as it is on the outside. 465 N Park’s cylindrical, metallic exterior creates stunning views whether you’re inside or outside the building. It reflects sunrises, sunsets, the lake, and the city and also maximizes stellar views for residents from the inside with its cylindrical shape, giving every unit the “corner unit” feel.
Open House Chicago will take pace October 19th-20th. Click here for a full roster of sites.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
By Sophie Morrison
