700 West Chicago
Architectural Animation for the Four-Tower ‘Urban Campus’
ZOA set foot in the US
In 2017, a joint venture between Chicago-based Riverside Investment & Development and Tribune Media filed a zoning application with city officials outlining its big plans for the 7-acre property at 700 W. Chicago Ave.
The development was marketed as a “Connected Campus”, envisioned as a vibrant mixed-use district accommodating work, living, and leisure. This two-minute architectural animation features a dynamic narrative, joyful VFX, and engaging infographics that highlight the project’s innovative approach.
The developer’s vision at the time included four new towers, one dedicated to residential use, establishing a seamless live-work-play environment in downtown Chicago.
Four-tower ‘urban campus’
The four-tower ‘urban campus’ was designed to transform living and working downtown. Loft offices would provide a fully-connected workplace environment, while its residential tower was intended to serve the 24/7 lifestyle. The waterfront park and riverwalk were imagined as the perfect urban retreat, while restaurants, gyms, and outdoor facilities were planned to ensure that people live every day to its fullest potential.
Take a look at the project and its interior amenities including a food hall, fitness center, and roof deck.
Project update
As of 2025, the original “urban campus” plan for 700 West Chicago has not advanced to construction. While the project received initial city approvals and generated excitement in the industry, it was subsequently delayed by changes in the ownership structure (including Tribune Media’s acquisition by Nexstar), economic uncertainty, and the broader impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Several parcels at the site have been considered for redevelopment in recent years, but the full four-tower vision has not been realized. At present, the site remains undeveloped. No new architectural visualizations or significant updates have been released since the original proposal.
Project details
Location
Chicago, United States
Partner
Design
Developer
Investor
Team
Vogel Lautaro
Dorottya Somlói
János Sümegi
