Multi-building complex on the banks of the Chicago River
Published: 3/31/19
Envisioned by Bertrand Goldberg as a ‘city within a city’, Marina City initially consisted of five buildings, including two residential towers, an office building and a theater building, all atop a large base. The complex allowed people the opportunity to both live and work in downtown Chicago.
The bold, mid-century modern design of the 64-floor residential towers adds an unmistakable presence to the Chicago skyline. The towers consist of 896 condo units in a combination of studio, one- and two-bedroom configurations. Each of these River North condos feature a walk-in closet and at least one, 180 square-foot, private balcony.
Marina City was constructed in an effort to slow the migration of middle-class people to the bustling suburbs. The idea was ultimately a success- over the decades, the area around Marina City has increasingly become a focal point of Chicago nightlife. Some of the best restaurants in River North have deep roots in the neighborhood.
Several famous River North restaurants are located within a couple blocks of Marina City. Fronterra Grill, RPM Steak and Beatrix- River North are all located within walking distance of the landmark complex. The neighborhood also hosts Sound Bar and some of the best nightclubs in Chicago.
It was Bertrand’s belief that no right angles should exist in architecture, as none exist in nature. He compared the bays of the Marina City towers to sunflower petals, radiating outward from the strong, central core of each building. Curved, reinforced concrete forms were trademark Bertrand, who integrated them into much of his work.
James McHugh Construction was one of the general contractors leading the giant Marina City build-out project in the ‘60’s. Original plans for the marina on the Chicago River called for enough dock space to accommodate several hundred boats. However, plans were eventually scaled back to include room for only about a dozen small boats.
The ten-floor, former office building component of Marina City at 333 N Dearborn has recently been converted into the 354-key Hotel Chicago- Downtown. The theater building at 329 N Dearborn now hosts the House of Blues Chicago.
