SOM has completed the renovation and transformation of the Willis Tower Skydeck. The project includes an immersive new exhibition and a reimagined observation deck that will allow visitors to explore the city’s past, present, and future. The project returns the Skydeck to the original vision for the building, foregrounding the tower’s iconic views while showcasing its structural design through minimal design gestures and subtle finishes.
Upon entering, guests are guided through an interactive exhibition that explores how architecture has shaped Chicago’s history and identity. The exhibition includes bronze models of the city’s most influential buildings and a fly-through video that gives an immersive tour of the skyline.
The transformed observation deck on floor 103 includes improved lighting and building technology upgrades that greatly expand views across the city. New interactive screens encourage visitors to learn more about Chicago’s historic architecture.
As part of the renovation, Willis Tower earned LEED Platinum certification. SOM led design for architecture, interiors, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering. RL Edward Partners and Clark Construction Group constructed the renovation.
Related Stories
| May 31, 2013
$3 million renovation leads to rebirth of Boston hotel with new upscale identity
After a $3 million renovation, the Bulfinch Hotel in Boston has been reborn as the Boxer, a more upscale property.
| May 28, 2013
Renovated casino part of redevelopment project at Los Angeles-area racetrack
Hollywood Park racetrack in Inglewood, Calif., will soon become Hollywood Park Tomorrow, a 238-acre development project.
| May 2, 2013
New web community aims to revitalize abandoned buildings
Italian innovators Andrea Sesta and Daniela Galvani hope to create a worldwide database of abandoned facilities, ripe for redevelopment, with their [im]possible living internet community.
| Apr 19, 2013
Must see: Shell of gutted church on stilts, 40 feet off the ground
Construction crews are going to extremes to save the ornate brick façade of the Provo (Utah) Tabernacle temple, which was ravaged by a fire in December 2010.
