Chicago 360 Hires Architecture Firm SOM for Complete Renovation of Signature Room
Architecture firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill has been hired to redevelop two floors once occupied by the Signature Room in the former John Hancock Center, which the firm designed in the 1960s.
Renovation Plans Still in Early Stages
Observation deck company 360 Chicago announced the hiring of SOM on Tuesday but said it is still deciding what to build on the 95th and 96th floors of the skyscraper now called 875 N. Michigan Ave.
Whatever is built — the company said it won’t be a restaurant — should be completed in 2026.
Focus on Storytelling and Original Architecture
“One of the strengths of bringing on a firm like SOM is that they’re very focused on research and strategy as well,” 360 Chicago’s managing director Nichole Benolken told the Sun-Times. “We’re deep in the planning process with them, and challenging both them and us what the best use of the space can be.”
She said “we’re focused on storytelling in the space” but are still in the “early stages” of planning.
SOM to Spearhead Complete Renovation
SOM “will spearhead a complete renovation of the space with an interior design plan that will accentuate the original architecture of the building,” Chicago 360 said in a statement announcing SOM’s hiring.
In a statement, SOM partner Scott Duncan said the redevelopment was a chance to enhance the skyscraper’s role in revolutionizing urban architecture.
Honoring the Legacy of the Building
Benolken said she hopes the project honors the legacy of the building — which was revolutionary in its day by being the first mixed-use skyscraper. The building had 70 stories of apartment space and 45 stories of offices when it was completed in 1970.
Mothers Day Brunch at the Signature Room in 1999
Mothers Day brunch at the Signature Room in 1999.
Conclusion
Chicago 360’s renovation project aims to honor the legacy of the building while showcasing its original architecture. SOM’s expertise will ensure that the space is reimagined in a way that enhances its role in the city’s cultural and architectural narrative.
FAQs
* What is the estimated completion date for the project?
+ The project is expected to be completed in 2026.
* What will be built on the 95th and 96th floors of the skyscraper?
+ The company is still deciding what to build, but it won’t be a restaurant.
* What is the focus of the project?
+ The focus is on storytelling in the space and highlighting the original architecture of the building.
