Chicago’s Best Skyscraper, 1st Round: (6) The Franklin vs. (11) 900 N. Michigan

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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(6) The Franklin

Stats:

227 W. Monroe

Height: 1,007 feet

Floors: 60

Constructed: 1987-1989

Architect: Skidmore Owings Merrill (SOM)

Developer: Stein & Company and AT&T

Completed in 1989 as the AT&T Corporate Center, The Franklin Center was designed and built for AT&T to consolidate their central region headquarters. Designed by SOM, the postmodern building is clad in granite with a design that is characterized by a strong verticality, spoked roof pinnacles and setbacks at the 15th, 39th, and 45th floors. The building lobby extends through the block connecting the adjacent USG Building and featuring a 16-story atrium link.

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(11) 900 N. Michigan

Stats:

900 N. Michigan

Height: 871 feet

Floors: 66

Constructed: 1987-1989

Architect: Kohn Pedersen Fox

Developer: Urban Retail Properties

Located along the Mag Mile diagonally across from Friday’s winner the John Hancock Center, 900 N. Michigan is another postmodern skyscraper flanking the famous retail corridor. Designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox, the tower is clad in limestone and green glass, topped by four lanterns that light up the skyline. The building’s podium houses a seven-story vertical mall similar to Water Tower Place, while upper floors include a Four Seasons Hotel on levels 30-46 and 106 condominiums on floors 48-66. Floors 8-28 were originally office space, but levels 21-28 were converted into more condos in 2007.

Cast your vote below!

UPDATE! The poll has closed. 900 N. Michigan will move on to the Elite Eight!