South Michigan Avenue Penthouse Addition

Chicago, Illinois, 2006 unbuilt.

Tom Bader, Principal in Charge and Project Architect for Wheeler Kearns Architects

A previous client had the opportunity to develop a rooftop residence utilizing the air rights of 2 combined properties on South Michigan Avenue with a magnificent view of Grant Park and Lake Michigan beyond. Historic preservation requirements mandated the new structure which would replace several outmoded utilitarian structures could not be visually disruptive from the street. Several options were explored that straddled the existing and new structures being planned. Some utilized the 7th floor interior of the existing building combined with a new rooftop addition, and others explored an entirely new rooftop addition set back from the parapet to comply with the historic building guidelines. Eventually, negotiations with the Building Owner’s redevelopment team could not be mutually resolved and the redevelopment project proceeded without this proposed rooftop addition.