Behold 311 South Wacker Drive. It rises before us as a testament to Chicago’s architectural prowess. This post-modern skyscraper completed in 1990 stands tall.
At 961 feet it was once the tallest reinforced concrete building in the world. 311 South Wacker Drive held another unique title. It was the tallest building known only by its street address. That is until New York’s 432 Park Avenue surpassed it in 2015.
Look up at the crown of 311 South Wacker Drive. Notice the 105-foot tall translucent cylinder. It is surrounded by four smaller cylinders. These were inspired by the Tribune Tower. The crown is brightly illuminated at night. This makes it a visible landmark. 1852 fluorescent tubes light the five cylinders. The lantern at the top changes colors. It marks holidays and special events.
Consider the building’s base. The two-level lobby is known as the winter garden. Sunlight splashes through its 86-foot high glazed roof. The steel structure supporting it is influenced by Chicago’s ‘L’ tracks. The garden was envisioned as a commuter link. It would connect to Union Station through a disused streetcar tunnel.
See Raymond Kaskey’s bronze sculpture “Gem of the Lakes”. It watches over the garden from the Wacker entrance. The fountain’s shell form echoes the city seal. A heroic figure represents Chicago as the “city of broad shoulders”. The cape symbolizes the engineering feat of reversing the Chicago River’s flow.
Notice the grassy area to the northwest of 311 South Wacker Drive. This green space offers a place to relax. During warmer months people use it as a public lunch area. It is the largest green space in the Chicago Loop. The park hosts farmer’s markets. You can also find musical events and art festivals here.
Originally there were plans for companion towers. They were never developed. This was due to office market conditions. Harbour Contractors managed the construction of 311 South Wacker Drive. They built the 65 stories. They mined the building simultaneously. This accommodated the three-level underground parking.
311 South Wacker Drive is more than just a building. It is a symbol of Chicago’s architectural innovation. It held records. It also offers unique design elements. From its illuminated crown to its welcoming winter garden it captivates.