Known for its world-renowned architecture, Chicago has more than its fair share of stellar skyscrapers. From the Willis Tower and John Hancock to more modern examples like The St. Regis and NEMA Chicago, famous architects keep coming back to put their mark on our skyline. We have dozens of skyscrapers making up our world-class skyline, but there can only be one that’s the best.
In the spirit of March Madness, it’s time to figure out exactly which of those is our best skyscraper. We have narrowed it down to the 16 tallest projects and can’t wait to see who we crown as the winner!
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(4) Aon Center
Stats:
200 E. Randolph
Height: 1,136 feet
Floors: 83
Constructed: 1970-1973
Architect: Edward Durell Stone and Perkins & Will
Developer - Standard Oil Company of Indiana
Designed as a new headquarters for the Standard Oil Company of Indiana, Edward Durell Stone developed a monumental modernist skyscraper that overlooked Grant Park. With Perkins & Will serving as the architect of record, the tower is supported by an inner tube that holds the elevators and services, with an outer tube that forms the perimeter. These inner and outer tubes are linked by trusses that support the large open floor plates. Originally clad in white Carrara marble, the beautiful material didn’t hold up to the elements and started cracking. In the 1990s, the entire building was refaced with granite at an extraordinary cost.
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(13) Aqua
Stats:
211 N. Columbus
Height: 859 feet
Floors: 86
Constructed: 2007-2009
Architect: Studio Gang and Loewenberg Architects
Developer: Magellan Development Group LLC
Combining a hotel, offices, apartments, and condos, Aqua works to reinterpret human and outdoor connections through its design. Varying the floor slabs based on view and sunlight, the form of the tower was imagined as a vertical landscape of hills, valleys, and pools. The glass tower is wrapped in sculpted balconies that undulate to create unique outdoor spaces that foster social connections between residents.
Cast your vote below!
UPDATE! The poll has closed. Aqua Tower will move on to the elite Eight!