Updated details have been revealed for a potential mixed-use skyscraper at 301 South Wacker Drive in The Loop. The new structure would rise on the corner of West Jackson Boulevard directly across the street from the Willis Tower, replacing the north garden of 311 Wacker. The project is being led by Texas-based developer Hines.
Site context map of 301 S Wacker Dr by KPF
PREVIOUS (left) – CURRENT (right) rendering of 301 S Wacker Dr by KPF
Plans for a new tower designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox, the same team behind 311 Wacker in the 1990s, were uploaded to a new project website. While that site is dated 2023, a recently uploaded video, found here, shows the plans are still be active as of this year. This proposal supersedes a previously announced vision for twin towers on the surrounding sites.
Rendering of 301 S Wacker Dr by KPF
Rendering of 301 S Wacker Dr by KPF
The structure would occupy most of the site, connecting to the existing winter garden at 311 Wacker. The ground floor would feature a large shared social space and lobby for both towers, a corner retail space, a restaurant, and an all-day café. This would sit atop an underground parking garage with 87 vehicle spaces and room for 200 bicycles.
Rendering of 301 S Wacker Dr by KPF
Rendering of 301 S Wacker Dr by KPF
The tower above would rise approximately 45 stories and reach a height of over 700 feet, topped with a large crown. It would feature multiple setbacks and terraces as it ascends, offering 800,000 square feet of space. Most of this would be dedicated to offices with floor plates ranging from 25,000 to 28,000 square feet. Many of the office floors would include outdoor spaces built into the tower’s architectural cut-outs.
Floor plans of 301 S Wacker Dr by KPF
Included in the total square footage would be 45,000 square feet of amenity space, including various lounges, bars, and terraces; a 20,000-square-foot full-floor fitness center; and a 10,000-square-foot conference center. These spaces will feature metal, wood, and stone finishes, along with plenty of greenery as a nod to the original winter garden.
Rendering of 301 S Wacker Dr by KPF
Rendering of 301 S Wacker Dr by KPF
While plans for the tower are still relatively preliminary, the video suggests that Hines is actively pursuing the project as of earlier this year. It is unclear whether this effort will be affected by the recent instability and $45 million sale of the neighboring 311 Wacker. The new owners of the iconic tower are reportedly working on their own redevelopment plans.
Rendering of 301 S Wacker Dr by KPF
Rendering of 301 S Wacker Dr by KPF
The new skyscraper would likely require approval from the city as well as an anchor tenant before construction can begin. It would most likely come with a price tage above $800 million, similar to Hines’ nearby Salesforce Tower. A timeline for the project has not yet been announced.
Subscribe to YIMBY’s daily e-mail
Follow YIMBYgram for real-time photo updates
Like YIMBY on Facebook
Follow YIMBY’s Twitter for the latest in YIMBYnews
301 South Wacker Drive Hines Kohn Pedersen Fox Mixed-Use The Loop