Aqua Chicago

The Aqua Chicago is an 82-story commercial and residential building located in the Lakeshore East area of Chicago. Designed by Jeanne Gang of Studio Gang Architects, this building first earned its recognition by being the largest project to be awarded to a firm headed by a woman when it first broke ground in March 2007. It is also cutting edge in that it is the first building in the area to combine condominium units, apartments, and hotels all in one structure.

The name of the building was chosen because its developer, Lakeshore East Development, maintains a nautical theme. The structure is also in close proximity to the famed Lake Michigan. Continuing this motif is the wave-like construction of the balconies. As the most prominent feature of Aqua Chicago, they measure to an outward length of 3.7 meters to maximize the views of the skyline. This undulating appearance of the building gives it a sculptural and modern quality.

The base of the building is furnished with gardens, gazebos, and pools. It even has a running track and fire pit for its residents. The Aqua Chicago is also known for its use of green technology, such as rainwater collection systems and energy-efficient lighting.