Located adjacent to The Chicago Lighthouse in the Illinois Medical District, The Foglia Residences is a nine-story building that incorporates 76 affordable apartments for residents who are blind, visually impaired, disabled, and veterans, along with parking and retail space. This groundbreaking development is the first Low-Income Housing Tax Credit building in the nation for the blind community.

The units are designed to provide accessible, independent living with solid surface kitchen countertops for added durability, appliances with front controls and tactile operation, dimmable lighting, and high-contrast flooring and finishes. The common areas offer contrasting colors, braille signage, handrails in the corridors, braille wallpaper, and elevators with audible signals.

The joint venture team of McShane Construction Company and Ashlaur Construction successfully delivered the project after more than 120,000 project man-hours with a safety record notably better than the national average.

Positioned adjacent to The Chicago Lighthouse’s center, the nine-story structure features podium construction with first-floor retail space, three levels of parking, and six levels of apartments. The exterior integrates an attractive mix of perforated metal panels, brick veneer, and fiber cement siding. At roof level, there are back-lit translucent panels symbolizing a lighthouse.

Units are offered in studio, one-, and two-bedroom floorplans that provide accessible, independent living for qualifying low-income households. Features include solid surface kitchen countertops for added durability, Energy Star appliances with front controls and tactile operation, WaterSense plumbing fixtures, cultured marble vanities, and dimmable lighting. Additionally, there is contrasting flooring in front of the kitchen cabinets, and the finishes for appliances, cabinets, hardware, and countertops were selected to provide higher contrast for those with limited sight. Closet door pulls were selected that work smoothly with a rope tied to them so that service dogs can pull the doors open.

To make the residence fully accessible for its tenants, the common areas offer contrasting colors, lit braille unit signage, handrails on both sides of the corridors, braille wallpaper, braille numbering on the mailboxes, contrasting flooring in front of unit doors, and accessible elevators with audible signals. In the fitness center, the treadmills have toggles for dialing the speed up or down rather than touchpads, which are difficult to see. Additionally, the property has black light switches, outlets, and window controls to contrast with white walls throughout.

In order for the owner and City of Chicago to close on the financing, McShane-Ashlaur needed to finalize pricing. To keep the project within budget, McShane-Ashlaur provided value engineering options for the owner and design team to evaluate. After the contract was signed, all major subcontracts were awarded within 30 days in an effort to avoid cost escalations and material delays resulting from the unpredictable market conditions.

Because the project is adjacent to The Chicago Lighthouse’s existing facility with employees and patients who have varying disabilities, extra communication was required to ensure everyone’s safety. Additionally, the project team received special training on safely guiding those with visual impairments.

To make the building fully accessible for those with visual impairments and disabilities, McShane-Ashlaur worked closely with the architect and subcontractors to coordinate special hardware, braille signage, and accent flooring. When the kitchen countertops were upgraded from plastic laminate to solid surface for increased durability, the design team reviewed samples to ensure that the level of reflectivity was comfortable for individuals with visual impairments.

The translucent panels symbolizing a lighthouse caused challenges of their own. At approximately 100 feet above ground, the panels will not be easily accessible, so design coordination and special mockups were required to find a solution that will allow for maintenance and replacement of the lights.

The Chicago Lighthouse had an existing playground on the site that needed to be moved for construction to be completed. The playground had sentimental value to The Chicago Lighthouse, so rather than demolishing it and installing a new one, McShane-Ashlaur removed the playground during construction and then reinstalled it to meet current ADA/DCFS requirements.

McShane-Ashlaur encountered electrical service delays as the project neared completion. To minimize the impact on the project schedule, the team devised creative solutions to finish as much of the building as possible without permanent power.

McShane instituted its comprehensive Safety and Quality Assurance program throughout the project, led by the firm’s dedicated Vice President of Safety and Risk Management. McShane’s priority on safety and its high standards of training, implementation, and on-site supervisory governance provided a superior degree of awareness and safe practices throughout the construction process. As a result, the project team was able to minimize safety incidents throughout the duration of construction. In the end, after more than 120,000 project man-hours, The Foglia Residences was completed with an incident rate of 3.3, notably lower than the Bureau of Labor national average of 5.4.

The Foglia Residences is the first Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) building in the nation for the blind community. The development allows members of an often overlooked and underserved population to safely live independently at an affordable rate. Additionally, the residence is open to individuals with other disabilities, as well as veterans.

While the residence serves all members of the blind and visually impaired community, its location is especially helpful to community members employed at The Chicago Lighthouse next door. It is difficult for people who are visually impaired to get to work, especially in a city as large as Chicago, so employees now have the option to live just next door to work.

The property achieved Enterprise Green Communities Certification, which provides strategies to help developments move closer to zero emissions, prepares homes to withstand local climate hazards, integrates healthy living practices, and includes water standards that promote efficiency.

The Foglia Residences also benefited the broader Chicago community during the construction of the project. The project provided employment opportunities for local community members, with 46.5 percent of all construction hours performed by residents of Chicago. McShane is committed to involving minority and women-owned businesses (M/WBE) on construction assignments and, in addition to McShane’s joint venture partner being minority owned, 28 percent of work was performed by MBE subcontractors and seven percent of work was performed by WBE subcontractors. Additionally, seven percent of work was performed by Section 3 contractors.

Affordable housing development Encuentro Square Apartments features a 4-story, 51,970-SF, 32-unit complex and a 6-story, 75,850-SF, 57-unit complex. The residence offers 1-3 bedroom units, community and resident-only amenity spaces, a teaching kitchen, computer lab, outdoor recreational spaces, and other amenities. Once home to the Magid Glove factory, the land sat vacant from the late 2000s until it was bought in 2014 by The Trust for Public Land, who in turn sold to the city in 2019. With displacement pressure mounting, the Trust for Public Land and the city crafted a site redevelopment plan. Latin United Community Housing (LUCHA) and Evergreen Real Estate Group took on the plan in 2020. Financed by Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, Tax Increment Financing, HOME Investment Partnerships Program funds, Illinois Affordable Housing Tax Credits, and Affordable Housing Opportunity Funds, the complex provides much needed housing at an affordable rate, while sacrificing nothing in the way of comfortable living. The project had a customized safety plan and zero safety incidents, and all MBE, WEB, and city percentage goals were either met or exceeded.

Encuentro Square Apartments blends innovation with affordability, as well as convenience and culture with refined amenities and a sense of community that shines forth in the complex’s striking, colorful design and modern blend of rounded and squared features. Set in the heart of Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood, Encuentro Square stands out like a beacon, reflecting the rich diversity of the area and its residents, and providing an affordable place in which the community can gather and thrive, and continue to bring color to the city. The apartments at Encuentro Square are specifically designed to maximize living and entertaining space for residents of this thriving community, which has emerged as a hub for many art organizations, intimate music venues, locally owned shops, and buzz worthy eateries. The area’s creative energy and urban vibe make it a go-to for locals looking for the next cool thing, and Encuentro Square is one of those things.

Leopardo’s team of preconstruction and estimating experts helped guide the project through a complex field of material procurement and project funding. Materials with long lead times were identified up front and construction was adroitly scheduled around those times to ensure no delays. The project received funding from the City of Chicago in the form of Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), Tax Increment Financing (TIF), HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) funds, Illinois Affordable Housing Tax Credits (IAHTC), and Affordable Housing Opportunity Funds (AHOF). The project was funded by a combination of financing sources, including both 4% and 9% Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC)—a “twinning” deal. Twinning is a financing strategy used to maximize funding for affordable housing projects. In this approach, each building within the project is divided into two related yet separately financed segments, organized by floors, and units. By simultaneously securing both 9% and 4% LIHTC allocations, the hybrid method enhances the project’s financial feasibility, especially for larger scale developments. Utilizing its in-house team of Virtual Design & Construction (VDC) experts, Leopardo created models of the building that helped ensure accuracy and prevent delays before they happened.

This project had a customized safety plan and QR-code based safety orientation that allowed for immediate access to project safety information. Rather than a traditional “toolbox talk” style training, the project teams engaged in a 5-question quiz to determine how well they know that week’s safety topics.  Scores are utilized to follow-up as appropriate. Weekly safety visits were conducted by the Leopardo safety team to provide a new perspective and share recent news from other sites.  The Leopardo safety team also engaged with the weekly pull planning process to help with safety planning efforts. 100 safety inspections were conducted across the course of the project with more than 2,000 observations made and 125 corrections made before an incident occurred. This project was completed with an incident rate well below the average, with only one incident across 164,000 work hours.

The complex was conceived and delivered to provide much needed housing at an affordable rate to those living in the area, given the rising cost of housing in the Logan Square community, while also sacrificing nothing in the way of comfortable living. All units are deemed affordable by the city’s standards and are restricted to individuals or families who make below 60% of the area’s median income. The buildings offer one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, with rent set at $1,100 for a one-bedroom, $1,300 for a two-bedroom, and $1,600 for a three-bedroom. The Chicago Housing Authority provided rental assistance for 55 of the 89 units. Leopardo was proud to work closely with the Latin United Community Housing (LUCHA), as well as LIHTC syndicator National Equity Fund and construction and permanent lender BMO Harris Bank, to deliver the project. All MBE, WEB, and city percentage goals were either met or exceeded on the project.

The complex was conceived and delivered to provide much needed housing at an affordable rate to those living in the area, given the rising cost of housing in the Logan Square community, while also sacrificing nothing in the way of comfortable living. All units are deemed affordable by the city’s standards and are restricted to individuals or families who make below 60% of the area’s median income. The buildings offer one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, with rent set at $1,100 for a one-bedroom, $1,300 for a two-bedroom, and $1,600 for a three-bedroom. The Chicago Housing Authority provided rental assistance for 55 of the 89 units. Leopardo was proud to work closely with the Latin United Community Housing (LUCHA), as well as LIHTC syndicator National Equity Fund and construction and permanent lender BMO Harris Bank, to deliver the project. All MBE, WEB, and city percentage goals were either met or exceeded on the project.

The project received funding from the City of Chicago in the form of Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), Tax Increment Financing (TIF), HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) funds, Illinois Affordable Housing Tax Credits (IAHTC), and Affordable Housing Opportunity Funds (AHOF). The project was funded by a combination of financing sources, including both 4% and 9% Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC)—a “twinning” deal. Twinning is a financing strategy used to maximize funding for affordable housing projects. In this approach, each building within the project is divided into two related yet separately financed segments, organized by floors, and units. By simultaneously securing both 9% and 4% LIHTC allocations, the hybrid method enhances the project’s financial feasibility, especially for larger scale developments. The Chicago Housing Authority provided rental assistance for 55 of the 89 units. Leopardo was proud to work closely with the Latin United Community Housing (LUCHA), as well as LIHTC syndicator National Equity Fund and construction and permanent lender BMO Harris Bank, to deliver the project. Thanks to its deep roots and extensive experience serving as a general contractor in the Chicago market, Leopardo has relationships with minority- and women-owned general contractors and subcontractors. With deeply rooted family values and a strong internal culture celebrating diversity, equity, and inclusion, Leopardo revels in the opportunity to work alongside, build up, and learn from minority business enterprises and women business enterprises. Working together with Leopardo, the minority GC partner can build their resume by working on bigger, more complicated projects than they would be able to on their own, and working with a minority GC gives Leopardo the opportunity to work alongside good partners and learn from them as well. All MBE, WEB, and city percentage goals were either met or exceeded on the project.

Solverre, developed by Willow Bridge Property Company, is a luxury Class A rental apartment community. This new 12-story residential development is situated on a one-acre plot in the Uptown neighborhood in Chicago, Illinois, and comprises approximately 303 rental units with an above-ground parking facility. The building’s contemporary design harmonizes with the surrounding urban landscape and provides unobstructed views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. The 12-story building, constructed with a blend of innovative techniques and traditional craftsmanship, offers a variety of living spaces from studios to two-bedroom apartments. Residents enjoy a best-in-class amenity package, including a pool deck, fireplaces, grills, bike storage, a dog room, a business center, club rooms, a yoga studio, and a fitness room. The project achieved 21.56% M/WBE participation and 33% of construction jobs were filled by local residents.

Solverre’s sleek lines and contemporary façade harmonize with the surrounding urban landscape, creating an architectural masterpiece that complements the Chicago skyline. The building includes several distinctive architectural features and is the first precast building in North America to adhere to the Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute’s stringent construction tolerances. Erected by a PCI-certified erector, Solverre is classified as an AB project, indicating its complexity in precast design. The seamless integration of precast brick panels with field brick and custom window wall detailing creates a visually stunning façade.

Strategically positioned egress stairs and an elevator lobby along the exterior create natural light and promote use and passive surveillance. Additional features like floor-to-ceiling windows, etched glass, and dark gray brick and metal accents add a contemporary touch to the building’s exterior. The central sundeck, nestled within the U-shaped structure, offers residents impressive views and abundant natural light.

Aligned with Chicago’s Sustainable Development policy, Solverre champions energy and water efficiencies. The building features a green roof covering 50% of the surface area, achieving 20% energy savings over ASHRAE standards. Ample bicycle storage and EV charging stations are also thoughtfully provided. The first two floors also feature fritted glass that safeguards migrating bird populations, demonstrating environmental stewardship.

The construction team employed a series of innovative strategies and fostered early partnerships with key contractors, resulting in substantial cost savings of $8 million. Initially envisioned as a framed structure, Solverre underwent a comprehensive structural evaluation to explore cost-effective solutions. The team thoroughly evaluated the most economical structure, comparing the steel truss panel system with concrete.

Prior to the completion of the design, early partnerships were forged with the concrete, architectural precast, window wall, and MEP/FP trade contractors. These early collaborations drove the most effective and economical outcomes for the installation and detailing of the building’s skin and critical MEP systems. This ensured that all elements were designed and installed efficiently, cost-effectively, and to the highest quality standards. Through these measures, the Gilbane team demonstrated their commitment to excellence and innovation in construction.

Located in a vibrant neighborhood, Solverre prioritizes public space and the resident/pedestrian experience. High resident satisfaction underscores the project’s positive impact on the Uptown community and Chicago’s architectural landscape. The design goals were met, end users are satisfied, and the quality of craftsmanship exemplifies excellence.

The design process began in December 2019 and encountered an unforeseen obstacle—the Covid-19 pandemic. The design team quickly adjusted workflows, collaborating closely with the city’s Department of Planning and Development and the neighborhood’s alderman to ensure the project’s progression while prioritizing the health and safety of the entire team.
However, the pandemic triggered supply chain disruptions, particularly impacting the availability of insulation and waterproofing materials. The design and construction team promptly evaluated all exterior building conditions and adjusted construction details based on material availability and constructability. This proactive approach ensured the project remained on schedule while maintaining stringent quality and safety standards.

As the project progressed, the exterior enclosure materials and systems underwent significant modifications during the design development phase. Gilbane and Valerio Dewalt Train collaborated with the manufacturer to transform the original exterior grid into an elegant window wall. This transformation facilitated unique design solutions across the building envelope at various intersections, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality while also reducing costs.

Solverre, located adjacent to a highly active hospital, required meticulous construction site logistics. The construction team aligned material deliveries with the hospital’s operational requirements, ensuring zero disruption to the emergency department driveway and surrounding traffic routes. Hardscape protection measures were implemented to safeguard city streets, cyclists, and pedestrians from construction-related activities. The team also navigated an intricate urban infrastructure, a 130- foot water tunnel beneath the site that required close coordination with the city’s water department.

Gilbane leveraged cutting-edge 4D modeling by integrating the building’s design and construction models into our scheduling process. This approach allowed us to establish 4D model standards for virtual mock-ups and prefabricated construction zones while identifying any missed scope items for 303 residential units. Using these mockups, our team fine-tuned the millwork installation sequence and addressed vanity installation issues in each unit before construction began. By catching these issues early, we prevented significant rework and potential delays in the project schedule, ensuring all bathrooms were seamlessly constructed across all 12 floors. Utilizing this innovative and best-in-class tool enhanced team engagement and communication.

The construction of Solverre was a complex task that required precision, resilience, and teamwork. Despite challenges such as supply chain disruptions and intricate urban infrastructure, the team successfully completed the construction project on schedule and within budget. This accomplishment was achieved through careful planning, efficient execution, and collaborative problem-solving.

Solverre stands as a symbol of successful design and construction under challenging circumstances. The building is not just a structure, it’s a testament to the team’s ability to adapt and innovate in the face of adversity.

An unwavering commitment to safety lies at the heart of the Solverre. Rather than treating safety as a mere checklist, Gilbane’s project team recognized safety as a cultural necessity, a shared responsibility woven into every construction aspect of the project’s lifecycle.

The team implemented a multifaceted approach, starting with daily shift-start meetings. These meetings ensured that all trade contractors were brief on the day’s tasks and safety protocols. Pre-planning these meetings allowed for proactive hazard identification and risk mitigation, emphasizing the importance of preparation. Additionally, weekly foreman meetings facilitated communication and coordination among team leaders, reinforced safety practices, and addressed any potential concerns promptly.

Intensive training was a cornerstone, especially for high-risk activities such as working at heights, operating heavy machinery, and handling hazardous materials. Regular safety stand-downs empowered workers to actively monitor and correct unsafe behaviors. Mandatory scaffold erection and fall protection training was provided for all workers involved in elevated work, while emphasis was placed on proper shoring techniques and soil analysis during excavation work. By tailoring training to specific tasks, the workforce gained a comprehensive understanding of the risks associated with their work and learned effective mitigation strategies.

The project team conducted thorough investigations following any near misses, learning from each event to prevent recurrence. Our team did not just react to safety concerns; they proactively fostered a strong safety culture, focusing on continuous improvement to set a new standard for future industry projects. The project team exemplified safety excellence through a comprehensive approach.

OSHA Recordable Incident Rate: 0.63
Lost Time Accident Rate: 1.25
Total Worker Hours on Job: 320,000

At Gilbane Building Company, we are deeply committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion on our projects. Solverre, in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood, exemplifies our dedication to these principles. This luxury Class A rental apartment community, developed by Willow Bridge Property Company, not only enhances the urban landscape but also serves as a beacon of inclusivity and economic empowerment.

Commitment to Supplier Diversity: The project achieved 21.56% minority- and women-owned business enterprises (M/WBE) participation, surpassing industry standards and demonstrating our commitment to supplier diversity. This initiative ensured that a substantial portion of the project’s budget was allocated to businesses that are often underrepresented in the construction industry. By doing so, we not only supported these businesses but also contributed to the economic growth and sustainability of the local community.

Local Workforce Inclusion: In addition to supplier diversity, the Solverre project prioritized local workforce inclusion. 33% of construction jobs were filled by local residents, providing employment opportunities to individuals within the community. This approach not only boosted the local economy but also fostered a sense of ownership and pride among residents. By hiring locally, we ensured that the project’s benefits extended beyond its
physical footprint, positively impacting the lives of those who live and work in the area.

Addressing Community Needs: Solverre addresses critical community needs by incorporating affordable housing units into its design. The project includes eight affordable housing units, providing much-needed housing options in an area long-challenged by housing shortages. Additionally, Willow Bridge Property Company contributed over $3 million to support a new 28-unit project led by Sarah’s Circle, a local organization dedicated to empowering women experiencing homelessness. This contribution underscores our commitment to addressing societal issues and promoting equity within the community.

Inclusive Design and Accessibility: Solverre’s design reflects inclusivity and accessibility. The building features a blend of dark brick cladding and expansive glass, harmonizing with its surroundings and creating a welcoming, pedestrian-friendly character. Including ample bicycle storage and EV charging stations promotes sustainable transportation options, making the building accessible to a diverse range of residents. Furthermore, the project features fritted glass to protect migrating bird populations, demonstrating our dedication to environmental stewardship.

DEI in Practice: During the construction phase, we collaborated closely with M/WBE firms to ensure their active participation and success. We provided mentorship and support to these businesses, helping them navigate the complexities of large-scale construction projects. This hands-on approach ensured that our DEI goals were met and that these firms could thrive and grow.

Moreover, our local hiring practices were implemented through targeted outreach and partnerships with community organizations. We worked with local job training programs to identify and recruit qualified candidates, providing them with the skills and opportunities needed to succeed in the construction industry. This initiative not only fulfilled our client’s requests for supplier diversity but also created a pipeline of talent for future projects.

Through supplier diversity, local workforce inclusion, and addressing community needs, Solverre enhances the urban landscape and promotes positive societal change.

Solverre, located in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood, has significantly improved the quality of life in an economically disadvantaged area. By incorporating affordable housing units, Solverre addresses the critical need for accessible housing options in a community long challenged by housing shortages. The inclusion of eight affordable housing units ensures that residents from diverse economic backgrounds can benefit from the development. Additionally, Willow Bridge Property Company donated $3 million to support a new 28-unit project for Sarah’s Circle, a local organization dedicated to empowering women experiencing homelessness. This contribution underscores our commitment to addressing societal issues and promoting equity within the community.

Solverre’s commitment to inclusion is evident through its supplier diversity and local workforce inclusion initiatives. Achieving 21.56% minority- and women-owned business enterprises (M/WBE) participation, the project surpasses industry standards and ensures that a substantial portion of the budget is allocated to underrepresented businesses. This not only supports these businesses but also contributes to the economic growth and sustainability of the local community. Furthermore, by filling 33% of construction jobs with local residents, Solverre provides employment opportunities to individuals within the community, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among residents.

Solverre enhances the urban landscape with its inclusive design and accessibility features. The building’s blend of dark brick cladding and expansive glass creates a welcoming, pedestrian-friendly character. Ample bicycle storage and EV charging stations promote sustainable transportation options, making the building accessible to a diverse range of residents. The use of fritted glass to protect migrating bird populations demonstrates our dedication to environmental stewardship, further enriching the community’s quality of life.

At Gilbane Building Company, we are deeply committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion on our projects. Solverre exemplifies our dedication to promoting inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility. The project’s impact on the community is profound, as it not only enhances the urban landscape but also serves as a beacon of inclusivity and economic empowerment. By incorporating affordable housing units and supporting local organizations like Sarah’s Circle, Solverre addresses critical community needs and promotes equity within the community.

Solverre’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion is demonstrated through its supplier diversity and local workforce inclusion initiatives. Achieving 21.56% M/WBE participation, the project ensures that underrepresented businesses are actively involved and supported. This initiative not only contributes to the economic growth of the local community but also promotes a more inclusive construction industry. Additionally, by filling 33% of construction jobs with local residents, Solverre provides employment opportunities to individuals within the community, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among residents.

During the construction phase, we collaborated closely with M/WBE firms, providing mentorship and support to ensure their active participation and success. This hands-on approach ensured that our DEI goals were met and that these firms could thrive and grow. Our local hiring practices were implemented through targeted outreach and partnerships with community organizations, working with local job training programs to identify and recruit qualified candidates. This initiative not only fulfilled our client’s requests for supplier diversity but also created a pipeline of talent for future projects. Solverre’s inclusive design, featuring ample bicycle storage, EV charging stations, and fritted glass to protect migrating bird populations, further demonstrates our commitment to promoting accessibility and environmental stewardship.

1000M, this iconic 805’ tower at a premier location on Michigan Avenue responds at different levels to its urban condition and skyline identity. 738 rental units ranging from studios to three-bedroom penthouse units inject a new vibrancy to the south end of Grant Park. 80,000 square feet of amenities compliment the units with a variety of active and passive spaces. The strong rectilinear base intentionally harmonizes with the block buildings that line historic Michigan Avenue. The façade here has less glass relating to the punched openings prevalent in the adjacent buildings. The south face slopes 18 feet to the over the adjacent 1006 South Michigan Avenue building allowing for an efficient tower plan maximizing lake and city views. Separated by a two-story “cut” the tower rises from the 22nd to the 73rd floor. The glass tower is conceived as a rectangle with slightly bowed east and west facades. The northwest and southeast corners are curved and rise vertically through the height of the tower. The opposing corners at the northeast and southwest slope out 12 feet reaching out to the city and transforming the plan to a parallelogram at the roof. The post-tensioned concrete structure is a model of safety in tall building construction.

The design for 1000M is inspired by the site’s position at the intersection of nature and the city. The east and west facades converge at sharp edges on the northeastern and southwestern corners, while the opposing corners resolve into soft curves. The north and south building facades reflect interlocking triangles, which move in distinct planes away from each other along a shared diagonal seam that runs up the entire tower.

The building’s unique shape has produced fresh, innovative floor plates that are transformed into apartments with a refined touch. 1000M gradually widens at the northeast and southwest corners, allowing its floor plate to transition from an efficient rectangle at the base to an expansive parallelogram at the top, giving even the southwestern units prime views of Lake Michigan and the Museum Campus. A playful grouping of organic curves and angled corners mimics the silhouette of the building while creating warm, personal living spaces.

With the high and size of the structure it required careful planning, scheduling, selection of materials and subcontractors to ensure the highest level of quality was achieved. Challenges with material pricing and logistics were coordinated during pre-construction through the construction phase. With this approach the building was completed on time and on budget.

Safety is one of McHugh’s essential and core values and top priority on all projects.
1. Coordinated with the City of Chicago and NASCAR to accommodate 80,000 attendees for the 2023 and 2024 Chicago Street Race on Michigan Avenue
2. Implemented long-term strategic plans for vehicle and pedestrian traffic with the City of Chicago and CDOT throughout all construction phases
3. Hosted frequent jobsite-wide safety meetings with safety experts as guest speakers
4. Implemented state of the art project management and safety software throughout the Project to successfully coordinate and manage 55 subcontractor teams
5. Daily crane lifts around close and densely situated adjacent high and mid-rise buildings required extensive planning and necessitated constant careful visual monitoring and analysis
6. Coordinated with the City of Chicago to successfully execute a 9 hour continuous 4000 cubic yard concrete pour for the 1000M mat slab foundation.

When fully leased, the project will add over 1000 new residents to the community enriching the viability of the South Loop.