Wolf Point high-rise development begins construction in Chicago

On July 18th, construction began on a 48-story luxury residential tower in Chicago. Part of a larger master plan designed by Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects, the tower is being developed by Hines and Magellan Development Group. All told, three towers will be built as part of the larger project, called Wolf Point.

The three buildings are:

• West Tower (under construction) - a 50-story, 500-foot-tall apartment building with 500 luxury rental units
• South Tower - a 950-foot-tall mixed-use building that will be the city's eighth-tallest tower
• East Tower - a 750-foot-tall mixed-use building.

The development is located at the Y-shaped intersection of the Chicago River's northern, southern, and western branches. As a whole, the project has been contentious for local residents. It was strongly opposed when the developers first introduced it, and the current plan is a revised version of the original. Residents were worried that the original plan would block views of the skyline and increase traffic in the area. 

Pedestrian areas, 100,000 sf of park space, and a river walk will be part of Wolf Point. The developers plan to pursue LEED Silver Certification for the development.

A view of Wolf Point from the west. Renderings courtesy of Hines.

A view of Wolf Point from the north. Renderings courtesy of Hines.

A view of the west garden at Wolf Point. Renderings courtesy of Hines.