900–910 North Lake Shore Drive is a landmark of mid-century modernism in Chicago. The two iconic towers designed by the legendary Ludwig Mies van der Rohe represent the full realization of his vision for the glass-and-aluminum curtain wall. Originally built as luxury apartments (known as Esplanade Apartments), the towers were converted to condominiums in 1979. Today, the complex is celebrated for its meticulously preserved architecture and curated art collection. 

Building Facts

Height:

259 Feet (79 Meters)


Architect:
Ludwig Mies van der Rohe


Developer:

Herbert Greenwald

 

Location:

900-910 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60611

 

Neighborhood:

Streeterville

 

Stories:

29

 

Use:

Residential Condominiums 


Completion:

1956

 

 

 

 

EXT-Exterior copy

Architecture

The architecture of 900-910 N Lake Shore Drive exemplifies Mies van der Rohe's International Style, featuring two glass-and-steel towers with minimalist curtain walls and exposed steel frames, creating transparent "glass houses" that maximize views of Lake Michigan. The towers represent the full realization of Mies van der Rohe's vision for the glass-and-aluminum curtain wall and set a benchmark for modern high-rise living through clean lines, geometric precision, and a seamless blend of structure and light. These buildings refine the concepts Mies van der Rohe first explored in the nearby 860-880 N Lake Shore Drive towers. Constructed with a reinforced concrete frame and a prefabricated aluminum and tinted-glass exterior, the "glass houses" were designed as "giant mirrors for lake beauty". 

Interior Design

All units feature floor-to-ceiling windows, and some provide panoramic views of Lake Michigan or the Chicago skyline. While unit finishes vary by renovation, many retain the open layouts and minimalist aesthetic characteristic of the International Style. Many residents have undertaken complete renovations, opening up floor plans and combining units to create open concept living spaces. Common areas and hallways are treated as gallery spaces, housing an impeccably curated collection of over 150 modernist artworks, giving the buildings a museum-like feel. The art collection includes sculptures by Richard Hunt and Virginio Ferrari. The ground-floor lobbies are luxurious, enclosed in glass and featuring elegant Verdi marble walls and terrazzo floors. 

Location

Located in the heart of the Streeterville neighborhood, the towers occupy an entire lakefront block. Residents have immediate access to the Lakefront Trail, Oak Street Beach, and Lake Shore Park. The Magnificent Mile’s luxury shopping and dining are just two blocks away.

Interesting Facts

Technological Pioneer

It was the first residential complex in Chicago to feature central air conditioning.


The First "True" Curtain Wall

900–910 was the first project to fully realize an autonomous aluminum-and-glass skin. The exterior curtain wall is non-load-bearing and hangs in front of the structural skeleton as a continuous sheet, a technique that later became the standard for modern high-rises.


Materiality and Ornamentation

In keeping with the "less is more" philosophy, the towers lack traditional ornamentation. Instead, luxury is expressed through high-end materials such as Verdi marble in the glass-enclosed lobbies and tinted, heat-absorbing glass on the facade. 

Why I live there

I love living there for its beautiful architecture and prime lakefront location. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer an unrivaled connection to Lake Michigan and the city, while the building itself is meticulously well-maintained. Also, it is exceptionally financially stable, offering a secure urban lifestyle in the heart of Chicago.

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