Project Concept

Form Progression

Project Diagrams

Gathered Experiences
Type: Mixed Use
Location: Chicago - Old Town
Status: Proposal
Scope: New Construction

The initial concept stemmed from the idea of a mass on a shelf that would create a public space. It developed in such a way that the restaurant space made up the base, the circulation and entry space made up the spine, and the residential units made up the mass. The form of the building was shaped by the desire to frame a series of views ranging in scale from Wells St on the first floor, to the skyline from the roof deck; while opening up to the neighborhood using the building’s edges to visually and physically direct pedestrian traffic; as well as crafting outdoor gathering spaces through a series of setback terraces that together provide occupants with a unique experience of the city. 


On the ground floor of the building, the kitchen is set as a stage by being the highest point on the interior, while the rest of the space steps down similarly to the manner in which the setback terraces above occur. Visitors enter the space by rounding the corner onto Schiller street to tuck into the building. Residents may choose an interior experience off of Wells St, or and exterior one at the rear. One the unit levels, communal terraces are carved out of the space in the circulation core, while a kink in the wall guides constituents into their units. The layout of the partitions inside allows for a reveal of the structure of the building, while conforming to the geometric language of the exterior. The first floor has a communal deck above the restaurant, and floors two- three have a private terrace facing Wells St, and a balcony facing the neighborhood. The top floor is an communal space connected to a rooftop terrace and garden with views of the skyline. 



The residential mass of the building is wrapped in glass. The shelf is comprised of a glass system that is screened by a copper mesh to provide a dynamic quality to the building. Day to day, one can’t see in during the daytime, but in the evening, it glows as a new gathering point in Old Town, and over the years, as it begins to age, the changing color and texture will continue to renew interest in the building.