Chicago, Illinois
Porte is a massive multifamily residential development comprised of two towers and a shared podium occupying an entire city block.
The 3rd level podium deck is the main exterior amenity of the development. The design, comprised of a tapestry of circles in deliberate contrast to the linear architectural pattern, contains a rich diversity of program “pods” including a pool deck, multi-use green, overlook terrace with a custom fireplace shade structure, outdoor kitchens, and gardens. Sculptural, crescent-shaped berms encapsulate the pool and lawn space while a series of zen-like spherical berms punctuated with trees provide a bonsai-like element for unit terrace privacy. A more linear skyline terrace on the 17th floor capitalizes on the expansive views and interior amenity lounge connection while a 7th floor is a designated roof crop servicing local restaurants. The ground floor is lined with townhomes along with two of the four surrounding streets and each tower has its own unique entry courtyard. The sculptural circular forms of the roof are foreshadowed with arced corten steel walls and crisply articulated landforms. Retail development on the southwest corner is across from a park and features plank paving and bike racks to welcome visitors.
Top aerial photo credit: Andre X Vasquez