RIU Plaza Hotel Chicago
Chicago
BEST PROJECT
Presented by WSP USA
Owner: Riu Hotel Group
Main design company: The Lamar Johnson Collaborative; Lucien Lagrange Architects
General contractor: We Ovneal
Civil Engineer: Eriksson Engineering Associates
Structural Engineer, MEP Engineer: WSP USA
This 28-story hotel transforms a vacant lot in Chicago’s Streeterville neighborhood into a vibrant four-star destination with 380 rooms, a rooftop bar, fitness center and full-floor dining, contributing to the neighborhood’s economic and cultural vitality.
Designed by Lucien Lagrange and Lamar Johnson Collaborative, the project navigated a broad review of the community and challenges of COVID-19.
Photo by The Lamar Johnson Collaborative
Drawing inspiration from the Chicago School of Architecture, the team designed a structure that combines timeless aesthetics with modern engineering. The stunning interiors, so important to an elevated hospitality experience, came together through teamwork.
Photo by The Lamar Johnson Collaborative
Structural obstacles, including a dramatic cantilevered roof balcony, were resolved through close coordination between the owner, architect and engineers.
Sustainability solutions such as a heat recovery chiller and advanced energy monitoring reduced the environmental impact, while the interiors were completed through synchronized international design and construction efforts.
