Challenge:

Situated along the picturesque Lake Shore Drive in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighbourhood, is the newly constructed 61 E. Banks development. In a neighbourhood distinguished by eye-catching residential architecture, often built of stone or brick, the 61 E. Banks development is no exception, presenting its stunning stone façade, accentuated by steel and glass bays. Spanning eight stories are sixty-one meticulously designed rental units, communal spaces and a rooftop oasis.

In pursuit of enhancing the rental living experience, the development prioritizes outdoor amenities to create a breathtaking roof deck for its tenants. The rooftop is transformed into a luxurious retreat, boasting a glass-enclosed lounge, library, kitchen and fitness center. A sprawling terrace, adorned with lush greenery that accounts for over 50% of the rooftop space. This stunning oasis offers outdoor seating, dining areas, and grilling stations, all designed to mirror the Art Deco and Mid Century Modern architectural trends that define the neighbourhood.

In search of an aesthetically pleasing and seamlessly integrated design that complements the building and the Gold Coast neighbourhood, Jacobs/Ryan Associates turned their attention to selecting the perfect paving for both the roof deck and drive/drop-off area. After careful consideration the choice of Unilock Arcana slabs in the color Avorio was made for the roof deck and entry, while Eco-Line with Series finish in Mineral Ice Grey was selected for the drive/drop-off area.

Goals of the Project:

• Create a design that seamlessly blends with the architectural aesthetics of Chicago’s Gold Coast and complements the 61 E. Banks Façade
• Incorporate elements inspired by the Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern architectural trends prevalent in the neighbourhood
• Ensure the project is equipped with products known for their long-lasting durability and timeless beauty
• Elevate the rental living experience by designing a captivating roof deck amenity space for tenants to enjoy

Solution:

Arcana slabs were chosen not only for their silky, matte surface texture and appearance but also for their compatibility with the modern architectural style that defines the area. The large-format square slabs evoke a sense of modernity, emphasizing clean lines and simplicity, perfectly complementing the surrounding aesthetics. In addition to their captivating beauty, these slabs offer a host of functional benefits. Manufactured by fine blasting its surface to expose a combination of natural granite, quartz and marble particles, these slabs provide a durable and nonslip surface that is further enhanced with EasyClean™ technology. EasyClean™ technology goes beyond the surface by infusing a factory-sealed coating into the slab to deliver integral stain resistance, ideal for the 61 E. Banks roof deck which sees plenty of pedestrian traffic. Moreover, this technology ensures swift and efficient cleanup of spills that may occur in the dining areas and grilling stations.

Eco-Line was selected for the drive/drop-off area, complemented by an elegant entryway of the same Arcana slabs. Unilock Eco-line pavers offer exceptional strength and permeability, making them the perfect choice for the drive/drop-off area, which experiences frequent vehicular traffic. The long, linear plank shape of Eco-Line harmonizes with the surrounding aesthetics, contributing to a contemporary atmosphere that seamlessly integrates with the building’s façade. Selected in a Series™ finish, the surface texture boasts a unique micro-pebbled surface that showcases speckles of color and sparkle from exposed granite particles that is only enhanced over time. The permeable benefits from this paver make it stand out with 6.25mm joint spacing, allowing for the rapid infiltration of water, enhancing its environmental performance. Meanwhile, the chosen color of Mineral Ice Grey not only blends with the entryway but also complements the marble interior of the 61 E. Banks development.

This project has successfully achieved the goal of harmonizing with the surrounding architecture of Chicago’s Gold Coast while enhancing the overall appeal of the 61 E. Banks building. Additionally, it provides tenants with a remarkable roof deck where they can savor the sunrise and enjoy a breathtaking view of the lake and city throughout the year.