Construction tops out at 1221 W. Washington

Chicago based developer Focus recently announced the topping out of the structure for 1221, a mixed-use development at 1221 W. Washington in Chicago’s Fulton Market neighborhood. Located between two adjacent historic buildings, the site overlooks the intersection of W. Washington Blvd and N. Willard Ct.  The project is being led by Focus in partnership with DAC Developments and Melrose Ascension Capital. 

“With limited supply coming to Fulton Market, and Chicago as a whole, we are eager to complete construction of 1221 Washington to meet pent-up apartment demand,” said Tim Anderson, president and CEO of Focus. “Our unique approach to the program at 1221 offers not only some of the only new product in the market but aims to address the needs of the renter through enhanced community spaces.”

Designed by Pappageorge Haymes, the 19-story, 286,232-square-foot Class A luxury development features a concrete podium with a brick façade, topped by a glass curtain wall spanning floors five through 19. The development will include 287 apartment units, approximately 2,700 square feet of ground-floor retail space, and 110 parking spaces. 

With Partners by Design leading the interior design, apartment floor plans include a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom rental units. Resident amenities will span over 25,000 square feet in total and include three rooftop decks with a pool and grilling stations, a spa with an indoor hot tub, sauna, a fitness center with yoga and spin studios, private co-working spaces, and a dog spa and dog run.

The project is being supported by financing including a $71.6 million construction loan from CIBC as well as $23.9 million in preferred equity from Heitman, with remaining equity covered by the developers.

With Focus also serving as the general contractor and Luxury Living leading the marketing and leasing for the project, first deliveries are anticipated in January 2027. For more information about the project, visit www.Rent1221.com.