The new vertical campus is expected to be a significant addition to Chicago’s skyline. The slim and tall academic and residential tower features an undulating glass façade in various shades of blue.
The tower will rise adjacent to the Auditorium Building, which is the university’s home since 1947. Auditorium Building, designed by architect Louis Sullivan, was the tallest building in Chicago and the largest building in the US, at its time. VOA has attempted to replicate the auditorium’s innovative spirit rather than slavishly imitating the renowned landmark.
The zigzagging profile of the tower is inspired by Romanian sculptor Constantin Brancusi’s work ‘Endless Column’. The concept has been incorporated to reflect the idea that education transforms students and is never truly complete. In order to highlight this notion, the high-rise’s variegated, blue and green skin will become progressively lighter as it rises.
The structure has been designed to house administrative offices and classrooms, a dining hall and fitness centre, a conference centre and science labs and residence suites. Designed to obtain LEED-Silver certification, the building is slated to be opened in 2012.
