John Hancock Center
John Hancock Center Apartments
John Hancock Center Overview and Highlights
Overview
John Hancock Center: Architectural Icon and Urban Living in Chicago
Located at 875 North Michigan Avenue, the John Hancock Center stands as one of Chicago’s most recognizable landmarks and a pioneering mixed-use skyscraper that has shaped the city’s architectural landscape since its completion in 1970. Designed by the architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill with Bruce Graham as lead architect and Fazlur Khan as structural engineer, this 100-story tower is renowned for its bold X-braced exterior—a hallmark of structural expressionism and an engineering marvel that supports the building against wind loads while maximizing interior space.
Distinctive Architecture and Structural Innovation
The shape of the John Hancock Center is a tapered rectangular tube with giant structural trusses on all four sides, displaying the building’s steel skeleton externally. This X-bracing system reduces the need for internal columns and allows larger, open floor plans, an innovative feature at the time of construction that contributed to the building’s iconic silhouette. The tapered design also accommodates changing floor space needs from bottom to top—commercial spaces occupy the lower floors while residential apartments are located higher up, adding privacy and quieter environments for residents.
Mixed-Use Urban Living Experience
John Hancock Center uniquely integrates residential apartments with retail, office, and dining spaces in one vertical complex. Its residential offerings range from studios to three-bedroom condos, providing housing options within the vibrant Gold Coast and Magnificent Mile neighborhoods—two of the city’s most prestigious areas. The building offers a range of amenities that enhance urban living, including a fitness center, swimming pool, grocery store, conference center, and parking facilities. Seasonal activities such as ice skating during winter and art installations often take place on-site, contributing to a lively living environment.
Observation and Dining with Panoramic Views
The building is well-known for its premier attractions located on the upper floors. The 360 Chicago Observation Deck on the 94th floor offers expansive panoramic views extending as far as four states on clear days. The Tilt attraction gives guests a thrilling outward-leaning view of the cityscape. Adjacent to the observation deck, the 95th floor houses the Signature Room, a fine-dining restaurant and lounge famous for its breathtaking city views and elegant ambiance. On the 96th floor, the Signature Lounge provides a more relaxed setting ideal for casual meals while soaking in spectacular vistas.
Public Spaces and Cultural Importance
Surrounding the building, the elliptical plaza serves as an urban oasis with seasonal landscaping, a cascading waterfall, and relaxation areas that attract both locals and visitors alike. The plaza’s design complements the contemporary and spacious interior lobby, which features art installations and modern architectural finishes from a 1995 remodeling. The John Hancock Center is not just a building but a cultural symbol that lights up Chicago’s skyline with a white light band at its crown, changing colors for special events like holidays and sports playoffs.
Lasting Legacy and Recognition
The John Hancock Center, now officially known as 875 North Michigan Avenue since 2018, remains a testament to innovative design and urban mixed-use development. It has won prestigious awards such as the American Institute of Architects’ Distinguished Architects Twenty-five Year Award and is recognized as one of Illinois’ great architectural places. Standing at a height of 1,500 feet including antennas, it ranks among the tallest buildings in the world and continues to influence skyscraper design globally.
In summary, the John Hancock Center is more than just a skyscraper; it is a dynamic vertical community that combines residential comfort, world-class architecture, and vibrant urban life in the heart of Chicago.
Address
175 E Delaware Pl, Chicago, IL
Building Type
Condo
Year Built
1969
Amenities
Average rating of 4.0 based on 3 reviews
John
Robert
Russ
Frequently Asked Questions
Location & Neighborhood
Streeterville
Streeterville is a lively neighborhood on the shores of Lake Michigan. It combines tourism, residential living, and culture, unlike any other Chicago neighborhood. Every day, thousands of tourists flock to Navy Pier, the Magnificent Mile, and the Museum of Contemporary Art to experience some of Chicago’s most iconic attractions. Northwestern’s Chicago campus and Memorial Hospital contribute to Streeterville’s cultural presence.
Residents typically live in high-rise condos or multi-unit apartments where they can enjoy beautiful lake views and easy access to nearby dining and nightlife options. With many lush parks in the neighborhood and Gold Coast to the North, residents have ample space to take dogs for weekend walks.
Commuting via Lake Shore Drive is supremely convenient for Streeterville residents as long as you have a car or can walk to the red line or Michigan Ave buses. Depending on your location within the neighborhood, access to other highways, public transportation, and The Loop can be limited. If you'd like to have easier access to the Loop, check out New East Side.
Streeterville is home to some of Chicago’s best restaurants, bars, and clubs. Although there are plenty of nightlife options, Streeterville is not considered the nightlife capital of Chicago. People often head to other neighborhoods to take part in a more lively nightlife scene.
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Disclaimer
Pricing, availability, and concessions are subject to change at any time and without notice. Photos may be of various model units and apartment availability and lease terms may vary. Information is believed to be accurate, however is subject to errors and omissions. The accuracy of all information, regardless of source, including but not limited to square footages and lot sizes, is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be personally verified through personal inspection by and/or with the appropriate professionals.