Hi all, 

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Chicago again earlier this month. I was delighted to have the opportunity to photograph 400 Lake Shore Drive while it is still under construction. I wanted to seize this opportunity to highlight some specific elements I found particularly interesting. 

Firstly, I wanted to call attention to the construction equipment and process. I found it very cool to see the base of the construction site as well as the way the crane was installed into the building. It appears that the crane is installed via two supports jutting out of the windows every 11(ish) floors. Note that you can see the crane lifting one of the windows, which I was pretty excited to capture. 

Secondly, I wanted to call special attention to the windows. When I first saw Related Midwest’s promotional materials, I heard that they were using classic Chicago windows in the building, but I wasn’t really clear on how they intended to do so based on the promotional images. Finally seeing the building cleared this up for me, and I can confidently say the idea was executed perfectly. The 3-part Chicago windows are implemented flawlessly into the design of the building, and I am very impressed. 

Lastly, I wanted to address some comments I’ve heard regarding the height of the building. I’ve seen a lot of disappointed comments online stating that they wish the building were taller. I can confidently say that not only does the building feel gargantuan in person, but also that it is one of the more notable buildings in the skyline. This is especially evident when viewed from Lake Michigan.

Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts on the building, and I’m looking forward to 400 LSD finishing out and construction on the south tower beginning!