Plans are underway for a striking new addition to Chicago’s architectural landscape. Developer Hines has unveiled a proposal for a 45-story office tower at 301 S. Wacker Drive, directly across from the iconic Willis (Sears) Tower. Designed by New York-based Kohn Pedersen Fox, the 800,000-square-foot tower emphasizes flexibility, wellness, and sustainability—key priorities for the evolving workplace.
Project Overview
The proposed office tower will rise more than 700 feet, featuring modern setbacks, terraces, and a distinctive crown. Connecting to the winter garden of 311 Wacker, the structure will occupy the southeast corner of W. Jackson Boulevard and S. Wacker Drive. While the project awaits city approvals and likely an anchor tenant, it is already drawing attention for its ambitious scope and prime location.
Design and Amenities
The design blends efficiency with aesthetics, maximizing natural light and providing dynamic city and river views.
-
Total Area: 800,000 sq. ft.
-
Height: Over 700 feet, approximately 45 stories
-
Amenity Space: 45,000 sq. ft., including lounges, terraces, and social spaces
-
Wellness Center: 20,000 sq. ft. full-floor fitness facility
-
Conference Center: 10,000 sq. ft. adaptable meeting and event space
-
Lobby: Large social space with café/bar and tenant services
-
Outdoor Access: Patios on all high-rise floors and half of the low-rise floors
Construction Features
-
Planning Modules: 4’9” modules and 45’ core-to-window depths for efficient floor layouts
-
Facade: Mix of metal, wood, stone finishes, and greenery echoing the adjacent winter garden
-
Parking: 87 underground vehicle spaces and 200 bicycle spaces
-
Retail & Dining: Ground floor corner retail, restaurant, and all-day café
-
Sustainability: Design expected to integrate energy-efficient systems, outdoor green elements, and smart building technologies
Workforce Impact
Chicago Yimby reports that the tower’s construction will employ a wide range of trades and specialists, including:
-
General Contractors & Project Managers: Overseeing build-out and safety
-
Steelworkers: For the structural frame and crown elements
-
Concrete Specialists: For foundation and podium levels
-
Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Contractors: Installing complex building systems
-
HVAC Engineers: Designing and installing high-capacity climate systems
-
Glaziers & Facade Installers: Crafting curtain walls and sun-shaded windows
-
Interior Finishers: Outfitting lobby, wellness, and conference spaces
-
Landscape Architects: Designing terraces and outdoor green spaces
Strategic Importance
With its prominent location on Wacker Drive, 301 S. Wacker is positioned to compete with major office developments like Salesforce Tower. The project aims to attract tenants with a blend of prime location, world-class amenities, and flexible workspace. Though estimated costs may exceed $800 million, the investment reflects confidence in Chicago’s ability to remain a hub for corporate headquarters and professional services.
Conclusion
301 S. Wacker represents a forward-looking vision for Chicago office space, balancing tradition with innovation. By emphasizing wellness, outdoor access, and sustainable design, the tower has the potential to redefine what modern workplaces look like in downtown Chicago. Pending approvals and tenant commitments, this ambitious development could soon rise as one of the most distinctive new landmarks on the city’s skyline.
