Optima, Inc., an integrated design-driven real estate firm, has received final approval from the Wilmette village board for their latest project: Optima Lumina. This 128-unit luxury residential building will be located in downtown Wilmette, Illinois, bringing new vibrancy to Chicago’s North Shore. Replacing the vacant Imperial Motors car dealership at 720-739 Green Bay Road, this project is poised to be a major upgrade for the neighborhood, offering upscale housing and convenient access to public transit, with Wilmette’s Metra commuter station just across the street.
A Vision for Downtown Wilmette
Optima Lumina is a six-story residential building that will feature one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, with some units as large as 3,000 square feet. It will also include 5,900 square feet of retail space, providing a boost to the local economy by adding shops and services to the area. The development complements Optima Verdana, Optima's neighboring 100-unit high-end rental community, which was completed in 2023 and is already fully leased.
To create a community atmosphere, Optima Lumina will be separated from Optima Verdana by a 75-foot-wide landscaped public plaza. This plaza will include outdoor seating, public art, and a fountain, making it a welcoming space for both residents and visitors. The building has a unique look, using terracotta for its façade—a first for an Optima property.
Sustainable and Innovative Design
A highlight of Optima Lumina’s design is the Vertical Landscaping System, which will bring lush greenery to the façade, terraces, and roofline throughout the year. This system, previously used in Optima’s Arizona properties and introduced to the Midwest with Optima Verdana, uses specially selected plants that stay green all year long. The landscaping will provide numerous benefits, including solar shading, cooling through evaporation, air purification, noise reduction, stormwater management, and more privacy for balconies as the plants grow and mature.
Yield Pro reports that the building aims to achieve Two Green Globes certification, focusing on environmental sustainability. Sustainable features include VRF heating and cooling systems (which are highly energy-efficient), eco-friendly induction cooktops, and electric outdoor grills. In addition, Optima Lumina will be equipped with 100% EV charging capacity in its underground parking garage, showcasing Optima's commitment to green living.
“The success of Optima Verdana has demonstrated the high demand for luxury new-construction multifamily housing on the North Shore. Optima Lumina builds on that demand by offering the option for current residents looking to downsize from single-family homes as well as would-be North Shore buyers struggling to find a home due to the area’s low inventory of available housing. Optima is committed to serving as responsible long-term stewards of downtown Wilmette, and we look forward to Optima Lumina enhancing the community and its vibrant character.”
President of Optima, Inc. | David Hovey Jr.
Grade Level Amenities: Modern Luxury
Optima Lumina offers an impressive array of luxury amenities at grade level, making daily life comfortable and enjoyable for residents:
-
Public Plaza: Nearly 8,000 square feet of public space for relaxation, including a Starbucks and additional retail space.
-
Fitness Center: Complete with locker rooms, yoga and Pilates studios.
-
Sports Lounge: Featuring a golf simulator and indoor putting green.
-
Indoor Basketball and Pickleball Court: Perfect for fitness and fun.
-
Library Lounge & Coffee Station: A cozy spot to read, socialize, or enjoy a quiet coffee.
-
Game Room, Kids' Playroom, and Pet Spa: Amenities for all ages, including pets.
-
Business Center and Conference Rooms: Designed for remote work or meetings.
-
Massage Room and Dog Park: Extra touches for relaxation and convenience.
Rooftop Sky Deck: Elevated Living
The rooftop sky deck is another star feature of Optima Lumina, offering breathtaking views of downtown Wilmette and surrounding areas. Rooftop amenities include:
-
Heated Pool with Retractable Walls: Allowing for year-round use.
-
Spa, Cold Plunge, Sauna, and Steam Rooms: Designed for wellness and relaxation.
-
Outdoor Fire Pits, Barbecues, and Seating Areas: Creating perfect settings for socializing or enjoying a quiet evening.
-
Residents' Club and Party Room: With a showcase kitchen for entertaining guests.
-
Bocce Court, Outdoor Garden Terrace, and Sundeck: Providing outdoor recreational opportunities and relaxation spaces.
Optima, Inc. will handle every phase of this project, from design and construction to sales and management, ensuring their high standards are met throughout the entire process. This
Supporting the Community: Affordable Housing Contribution
Optima Lumina isn’t just about luxury—it’s also about giving back to the community. As part of the zoning agreement with the Village of Wilmette, Optima will provide a $3.8 million contribution to support affordable housing initiatives in the area. This contribution is significantly larger than the $1.6 million donation made during the approval of Optima Verdana, highlighting the company’s commitment to making a positive impact on the community.
Architectural Highlights and Design Details
Optima Lumina is designed with thoughtful architectural features that make it both functional and visually striking. The sixth floor is set back along Green Bay Road, Washington Avenue, and the alley, which allows for expansive private terraces for penthouse units. The façade’s undulating design, combined with the coniferous plantings in the Vertical Landscaping System, adds to the visual appeal while ensuring greenery year-round.
The approval of Optima Lumina marks an exciting development for Wilmette and Chicago’s North Shore. By blending sustainable design, luxury living, and community focus, this project will set a new standard for residential development in the area. The combination of Optima’s innovative Vertical Landscaping System, amenity-rich environment, and dedication to sustainability makes Optima Lumina a shining example of the future of urban living.
With construction set to begin soon, Optima Lumina promises to bring new life to downtown Wilmette, providing residents with an exceptional living experience while also contributing to the community. Optima’s approach—integrating thoughtful design, sustainable practices, and luxurious amenities—positions this project as a standout development that will positively impact both residents and the broader Wilmette community for years to come.
