Great 21st Century Chicago Condos
St. Regis Chicago: “Where the River meets the Lake “
By Megan McKinney
We recently published an article discussing the real estate term Prewar and how it relates to residential architecture in Chicago. Within this we viewed the stately vintage co-ops and condominiums lined up on Lake Shore Drive and throughout the Gold Coast, often built at the end of the 1920’s. Inside the now historic buildings are wood burning fireplaces, dark paneled walls, hardwood floors and high ceilings. This is one great way to live well in Chicago. Today we inspect another.
30 West Oak Street
Sky High is our term for the great shiny glass condos that have been springing up in 21st Century Chicago. Above is 30 West Oak Street, built in 2007. Within the stunning building’s dramatic curved glass architecture are 44 luxury condominiums with open floor plans and 11-foot high floor-to-ceiling windows providing unobstructed views in every direction. Each condominium includes a spacious terrace located next to the gas and water lines of its high-end kitchen for seasonal outdoor dining. Fortunate owners have access to a concierge, a heated garage and a fitness center.
Aqua Tower
Completed in 2009, Aqua Tower was designed by a team led by Jeanne Gang of of Studio Gang Architects and winner of multiple awards. The striking 82-story skyscraper, at 225 North Columbus Drive in Lakeshore East, was Chicago’s first downtown building to combine condos, apartments and a hotel. When it was completed, Ms. Gang’s glorious structure was the world’s tallest building designed by a woman. It was surpassed in 2020 by the nearby St. Regis, pictured at the top of this article, also designed by her Studio Gang Architects.
goldcoastrealty-chicago.com
No. 9 Walton Condos
No. 9 Walton Condos, at the corner of Walton and State Streets, was developed in 2018. Its philosophy was to provide residents with five-star hotel-style amenities without having to share such features with hotel guests. Among the building’s stated amenities are valet parking services, a state-of-the-art fitness and exercise facility, personal training services, private wine storage, a covered dog run, reservable guest suites and an indoor lap swimming pool.
goldcoastrealty-chicago.com
Park Tower Condos
Park Tower Condos, above the Park Hyatt Hotel at 800 North Michigan Avenue, was completed in 2000. Within the site are a highly regarded health club, an indoor swimming pool, a sun deck with panoramic views, and the 4.5 star NoMi restaurant, lounge and garden restaurant. There is an on-site parking garage and pets are welcome. The building is steps away from Tiffany’s, the Ralph Lauren Polo Shop—inspired by New York City’s renowned Metropolitan Club—and the adjoining RL Restaurant.
132 East Delaware Place
When 900 North Michigan Avenue—home building for 132 East Delaware Place—was constructed in 1989, the 66 stories of the new 900 building replaced the residences of a long beloved previous 900 and attracted great notice throughout the city. Within the new 900 would be a Four Seasons Hotel, Chicago’s own Bloomingales, many high end shops and, atop it all, the condominiums of 132 East Delaware Place. Furthermore, condo owners would have access to the amenities offered at the elegant Four Seasons Hotel. Happily, the new 900 has more than lived up to its high expectations as a residence, a fine hotel and a superb shopping site.
Waldorf Astoria Chicago
At the south edge of the Gold Coast is the Waldorf Astoria Chicago, designed by architect Lucien Lagrange and developed by David Pisor. The 60 story project, completed in 2009, consists of two major portions. Above the 188-room hotel are 51 luxury condominiums, two at most per floor. Amenities include a boardroom, ballroom, a screening room, and a health club with an indoor pool. The residences have their own entrance and door staff separate from the hotel.
Author Photo: Robert F. Carl
