St. Regis Chicago (formerly Wanda Vista Tower)

Design and structure

The tower's massing is composed of three interlocking shafts of different heights that are visually separated by vertical setbacks. This tripartite arrangement produces the impression of three distinct towers knitted together, which reduces perceived bulk at street level and gives the silhouette a jagged, crystalline quality. The exterior uses a glass curtain wall with subtle variations in plane and balcony treatments to animate reflections and daylight. The design complements other nearby contemporary works such as the Aqua Tower: Aqua.

History and construction

Groundbreaking took place in August 2016. The steel and concrete structure rose rapidly and the building topped out in April 2019. Major interior and facade work continued into 2020, with final components and fit‑outs completed in phases through 2021. The project was initially associated with an international development partner and was commonly referred to as Wanda Vista Tower in early coverage; it later opened under the St. Regis brand. For development background and timeline references see the site: Illinois development records.

Uses, amenities and public spaces

St. Regis Chicago is a mixed‑use property that contains a luxury hotel component, private residential units, and shared amenity floors with views of the city and Lake Michigan. The lower floors integrate with the Lakeshore East neighborhood and include lobbies, service areas and retail or restaurant spaces oriented toward pedestrians. Key program elements commonly noted in descriptions are elevated amenities, panoramic observation points, and hotel services consistent with the St. Regis hospitality brand: architect profile.

Significance and notable facts

At roughly 1,198 feet and 101 stories, the building ranks among Chicago's tallest towers and surpasses older downtown high‑rises such as the Aon Center in height. It has received attention for being the tallest skyscraper in the world to have been designed by a woman lead architect, a milestone frequently highlighted in architectural coverage. The project cost was reported to be on the order of nearly one billion dollars, reflecting its scale and high‑end program.

Context and impact

Part of the Lakeshore East master plan, the tower contributes to the continued densification of Chicago's lakefront corridor and the expansion of high‑rise residential and hotel development in the central business district. Its skyline presence and distinctive form have made it a reference point in contemporary discussions about skyscraper design, urban infill, and the role of signature architecture in large‑scale redevelopment: see municipal planning notes and further analysis at regional planning.

• Architect: Jeanne Gang / Studio Gang — see profile: Studio Gang
• Location: Lakeshore East, Chicago — local info: Chicago
• Related buildings and comparisons: Aqua, Aon Center