1000M: Chicago’s Luxurious Mega Skyscraper

The Chicago skyline is more than just a cluster of skyscrapers; it’s a stunning display of the city’s spirit and elegance. On the north side of Grant Park, you’ll find familiar landmarks like the John Hancock Building and London House, standing proudly as symbols of Chicago’s rich architectural heritage. But if you look south you’ll notice a new standout—1000M, a recently constructed Chicago’s 73-Story Masterpiece that’s reshaping the city’s luxury living scene. This architectural gem isn’t just an eye-catching structure, but also a marvel of engineering, blending innovation with luxury in every detail.

Home to 738 residences, from comfy studios to extensive four-bedroom penthouses, 1000M caters to diverse tastes and lifestyles.

The journey to create this masterpiece started in December 2019, and despite the pandemic throwing a wrench in plans, it was completed in 2023 and welcomed its first residents on June 13, 2024. What makes 1000M shine in Chicago’s striking skyline, and how did the team keep the construction going when the world was in turmoil? Let’s find out!

1000M is an amazing gem in the Historic Michigan Boulevard District on Michigan Avenue, right in the heart of the Chicago Loop. This impressive 73-story, 253.6-meter tower at 1000 South Michigan Avenue was Designed by the renowned architect late Helmut Jahn and the interior designer Kara Mann From there, you can soak in stunning panoramic views of Grant Park, the iconic skyline, and the shimmering Lake Michigan.

The original plan for 1000 South Michigan Avenue was to build a sleek 300-unit condominium building. However, the pandemic created obstacles into the financials, forcing a major change in direction. Instead of condos, the project was redesigned to include 738 rental apartments. The legendary architect Helmut Jahn, known for his innovative designs, joined the team. This project became his final architectural venture, adding a special touch of brilliance and making it a perfect conclusion to his illustrious career.

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Building the 1000M skyscraper was a major undertaking with an estimated cost of around $304.5 million. This significant funding was provided by Goldman Sachs and Deutsche Bank. Their investment was more than just financial; it was a lifeline that kept this mega project moving forward, even when faced with various challenges. This support was the key in turning a bold vision into remarkable reality on Chicago’s skyline.

Setting up the foundation of the 1000M was no small feat, especially with the city’s notoriously tricky soil. Engineers used caissons—giant, watertight columns that dug deep into the ground, reaching 26 meters below the surface to anchor the building to the bedrock. This was crucial in providing a solid base amid Chicago’s soft, unstable soil.

The team also took an ingenious approach by incorporating point supports with wide, snowshoe-like pads. These acted like giant feet for the building, spreading the weight of the skyscraper evenly across the ground, much like walking on snow without sinking.

The construction of 1000M brought together a mix of cutting-edge engineering and creative thinking, making it stand out in more ways than one. Advanced materials, like high-strength concrete and steel fibers helped achieve a streamlined, elegant profile while boosting its strength and durability.

A key innovation was the diagrid structure—a diagonal grid of beams and columns that allowed 1000M to efficiently handle weight and stay resilient against winds and earthquakes. Near the top, giant tuned mass dampers acted like sophisticated counterbalances, wavering in the opposite direction of the building’s natural movement to reduce vibrations and keep things steady.

Planners also used Building Information Modeling (BIM), a smart digital tool that allowed everyone involved in the project—from architects to contractors—to work from the same detailed virtual blueprint. This not only streamlined collaboration but also helped prevent issues before they escalate on-site. On top of all this, 1000M was designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly materials to lessen its environmental impact.

This engineering marvel is also a showcase of how smart technology can transform everyday living. Imagine being able to customize your home’s lighting, temperature, and security, all from your smartphone, whether you’re lounging on the couch or halfway across town. You can lower the lights, tweak the thermostat, and monitor your security system with just a few taps on your phone.

Smart lighting throughout the building adjusts automatically based on how many people are around and how much natural light is coming in. This feature provides better energy efficiency and a more comfortable living space.

The 1000M skyscraper features advanced HVAC systems that keep the indoor air quality top-notch while being energy-efficient. You can even adjust the ventilation from your smartphone, making comfort just a tap away.

Elevators of 1000M are just as high-tech. You can call them using a smartphone app, similar to how you’d summon a ride-share, which means no more pressing buttons in crowded lobbies or waiting around. The building also features a cutting-edge energy management solution that uses smart sensors and meters to optimize energy use, predict potential issues before they become problems, and help cut down on overall energy consumption.

For residents and guest with electric vehicles, 1000M goes the extra mile, offering more EV charging stations than required. And when it comes to accessing various parts of the building, you can use your smartphone to get in, making it both secure and supreme convenience.

Sustainability is also a big focus. The skyscraper has clever water recycling systems that reuse greywater for activities like irrigation, helping to reduce its environmental footprint. For those who rely on the internet, 1000M has you covered. The building is equipped with high-speed and strong connectivity, so you can stream, work, or browse without any hiccups. Package delivery is another area where the building excels. Automated lockers handle your packages and send you a notification when they arrive, allowing you to pick them up securely and without any fuss.

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The 1000M is a striking example of modern architecture, blending innovative design with practical functionality. One of the standout features is its cantilevered levels that extend outward to create a unique silhouette and offer spacious views for residents. This design doesn’t only adds the dramatic flair to the skyline, but also helps distributing structural loads efficiently.

The skyscraper’s glass facade adds to its modern charm while allowing natural light to flood the interiors. The reflective glass panels create a dynamic appearance that changes with the time of day and weather, making the building a visual delight.

On the 73rd floor of 1000M, the sky terrace provides breathtaking panoramic views of Chicago’s skyline and Lake Michigan. This space includes an open-air pool, lounge areas, and green spaces, offering a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoyment.

Inside, the lobby and common areas are enhanced by featured art installations, adding a touch of artistic distinction and contributing to the building’s overall ambiance. These features come together to make the 1000M not just a residential building but a landmark of modern design and sustainable living.