Tall & Urban News

On 1 October, it was announced that  Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) has been brought on to lead the architectural redesign and redevelopment of the skyscraper’s 95th and 96th floors of 875 N. Michigan Avenue (the former John Hancock Center). In June 2024, Magnicity, parent company of 360 CHICAGO, the iconic observation deck located on the 94th floor announced their acquisition of the 95th and 96th floors.  This secured 30,000 square feet (2,787 square meters) of space that had been vacant since September 2023.

SOM will spearhead a complete renovation of the space with an interior design plan that will accentuate the original architecture of the building.  Originally completed in 1969, the 100-story building has established itself as one of the world’s most recognized skyscrapers and an iconic example of late twentieth century Chicago design, construction, and engineering. The building’s structural, programmatic, and architectural innovations combine to create a design that is heralded for its elegant simplicity.

As one of the world’s first mixed-use tall building projects, the John Hancock Center design was influential in its internal organization. The complex programmatic design placed commercial space on a sub-level concourse and the first five levels. This was followed by levels of parking, office, residential, and finally dining, observation, and broadcasting facilities. The architecture of 875 N. Michigan Avenue is informed by its expressive structural system and gently sloping façades. This innovative form was designed to efficiently accommodate the variety of uses contained in the building. The gentle inward slope creates optimally-sized floor plans for both the lower parking and office levels and the higher residential floors. Additionally, the tapered form significantly reduces wind loads, allowing for a reduction in the size of structural members. For Chicago’s busy streetscape, the building’s shape increases the visual verticality of the building; adding perceived height to an already impressively tall skyscraper.

“The John Hancock Center was a revolutionary project” said SOM Partner, Scott Duncan. “The experience at the top is extraordinary, with expansive views of Lake Michigan and the Magnificent Mile. It’s not just an observation point; it’s an opportunity to rethink its role as a premier destination in the city’s cultural and architectural narrative.”

Nichole Benolken, Managing Director, 360 CHICAGO adds. “The addition of these two floors to our Chicago portfolio has tripled our space on Chicago's Magnificent Mile, and we’re excited for the Skidmore, Owings & Merrill team to help us envision an exceptional destination that will elevate the profile of 875 N. Michigan Avenue and the Mag Mile as a whole.”

Both floors are planned to be reopened to the public in 2026.