Courtesy of Gensler

Gensler’s “Gateway Tower” is a 2000-foot (610 meter) conceptual proposal for the Chicago Spire site. The project is the winning entry for a company-wide internal competition to generate a new megatall structure for the 2.2 acre plot at 400 N. Lake Shore Drive. The mixed-use proposal throws out the residential luxury model that drove Santiago Calatrava’s design, with a concept inspired by tourism and public engagement. Gateway Tower’s volume is still largely devoted to residential functions, but now condos and apartments are coupled with a hotel and public attractions that connect to the riverwalk, lakefront, and city. The building would include four unique experiences including riverfront public access at DuSable Park, a Funicular ride of pods ascending the building’s structural “leg” over Lake Shore Drive, a Skylobby with hotel and retail amenities, and a Skydeck with a restaurant and sky-garden at the building’s pinnacle.

Courtesy of Gensler

The Chicago Spire site is currently owned by developer Related Midwest, who acquired the property in 2015 with the promise of an “architecturally significant” addition to Chicago’s renowned skyline. Gensler’s design is currently only a conceptual study, and as of yet has no association with Related Midwest’s future plans for the site.

Courtesy of Gensler

Courtesy of Gensler

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