09.22.2021 |
The Windy City is known for its generous contributions to the world of architecture. From Louis Sullivan, the father of skyscrapers and modernism, to Daniel Burnham’s beaux-arts inspired architecture, Chicago became a prototype for future urban planners to look towards for inspiration. Condensed inside the Chicago Loop, there is a diverse collection of structures drawing creativity from different schools of architecture. Let’s take a quick look at a few of the architectural marvels that make up the Chicago Loop.
Willis Tower
Considered one of the most influential achievements by engineers Fazlur Rahman Khan and Bruce Graham, Willis Tower’s 108 stories surpassed the World Trade Center to become the tallest building in the world when it opened in 1973. Today, it is the third largest building in the western hemisphere and the 23rd largest building in the world. Locals still refer to it by its original name, the Sears Tower. It served as the retailer’s headquarters until 1994. In 2009 the name was changed to the Willis Tower after a leasing agreement by United Airlines. It’s glass observation skydeck serves as one of Chicago’s top attractions. Visitors have the opportunity to gaze at the entire Chicago skyline from a glass secured balcony on the 103rd floor. For more information and reservations visit The Skydeck Chicago.
Cloud Gate
By far one of Chicago’s most alluring spectacles is the Millennium Park’s Cloud Gate, otherwise known as the Chicago Bean. The Bean came into existence in 2006 as a result of a design competition. Anish Kapoor, the structure’s designer, was inspired by the composition of liquid mercury. The bean’s highly polished stainless steel framework gracefully warps and distorts its surroundings. Because of this it has become one of Chicago’s most visited structures. Nestled in the heart of Chicago, this display of public art is the most visited destination in the entire city of Chicago and ranks in the top ten for most visited destinations in the United States.
Chicago Theater
The Chicago Theater was designed with the purpose of transporting guests into another period. One could say that their vision was in fact successful as today it still stands as one of Chicago’s most photographed buildings, primarily for its 1920’s atmospheric architectural features. It’s design was inspired by French Neo-Baroque elements. The most prominent features of this style include the stainless glass window and the white stone arc hanging above the marquee. The ceilings in the inside fashion more detailed sculptures of white stone transporting visitors to said era. Lastly, on the outside the bright vertical sign reading “Chicago” turns heads of every bystander. If you’re interested in attending a music, comedy, or theater performance at this historical Chicago venue, check their schedule online.
Aqua Tower
A more contemporary example of Chicago’s architectural diversity is the Aqua Tower, a 82-floor skyscraper hosting offices, condominiums, hotel suites, and most notably in our case, luxury apartment units at Aqua at Lakeshore East. The tower’s most defining feature is its outer shell consisting of irregular yet uniform balconies that when looked at in unison portray a wave-like structure. Its design was conceived by Jeanne Gang of Studio Gang architects along with a carefully selected team of architects. The design was so innovative that in 2009 it won the Emporis SkyscraperAward for skyscraper of the year. Resting at the very top of the building, residents will find a terrace filled with pools, hot tubs, a running track, and a fire pit. To get more information on all the amenities that this residence has to offer visit Aqua at Lakeshore East.
With the bustling lifestyle surrounding Aqua at Lakeshore East, it's sometimes easy for the Loop community to forget the grand Chicago landmarks that live around the corner. To learn more on the subject, take the time to plan a self-guided walking tour of Chicago architecture and go through Michigan Avenue to the Chicago Riverwalk. For those interested in taking a deeper dive, look into planning your trip with a tour guide providing architectural tours. We'll take a look at other Chicago landmarks in the future. Stay tuned!
