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Curves Ahead The rippling façade of this new urban tower incorporates 8.5 miles of curved balconies, each with its own unique shape and size, says Dave Alexander, senior vice president and project exec with James McHugh Construction. “Each pour at Aqua was an intricate dance,” Alexander says. “This project really demanded the best from all of us, and Prairie more than delivered.” The right mixes at the right time McHugh crews self-performed all concrete work at Aqua, employing a new system of reusable, light-gauge steel forming edges to create the balconies. Pouring the curved shapes while forming interior slabs and verticals required crews to handle up to 4 different mixes at a time. “Prairie’s ability to deliver the right materials to the right place at the right time was paramount,” says Alexander. “We needed mixes we could pump smoothly through our specially installed slicklines, then place and finish with the desired aesthetic effect. You always have issues with a project this complex, but day after day, the pours came off without a hitch.” Forms inspired by nature
McHugh crews brought Gang’s vision to life while meeting an aggressive construction schedule. “We were able to finish a floor every 3 days and complete the building 3 months ahead of plan,” Alexander reports. With 215 hotel rooms, 476 apartments and 263 condominiums, Aqua is the first Chicago structure of its kind to blend lodging with rental and condo living. Says Chet McGrath, project executive for Prairie: “This is an exciting building, a great example of the versatility of concrete. We’re proud to be part of this new Chicago landmark.”
Aqua – At A Glance Location: 225 North Columbus Drive, Chicago Size: 88 levels; total floor area of 2.3 million square feet Architect: Jeanne Gang, Studio/Gang/Architects Architect of Record: Loewenberg Architects Developer: Magellan Development Group General Contractor: James McHugh Construction Co. Concrete Provider: Prairie Material Illinois |
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Soaring 81 stories above the point where Lake Michigan and the Chicago River meet, Aqua at Lakeshore East has captured praise for its sculptural blend of glass and concrete.
Aqua is celebrated architect Jeanne Gang’s first high-rise project and reportedly the tallest U.S. structure ever designed by a female-led firm. Gang says the Great Lakes and their striated limestone outcroppings inspired the tower’s flowing façade.