A stunning example of Venetian Gothic architecture, the Chicago Athletic Association building makes an iconic statement along the landmarked Michigan Avenue streetwall. Designed by Henry Ives Cobb circa 1893 as a private athletic club, the building was most recently vacant and threatened with demolition.

HPA’s adaptive reuse transforms the historic building into a boutique hotel with 241 keys, banquet facilities, multiple restaurants and retail spaces, and a new rooftop addition overlooking Millennium Park. Extraordinary care was taken to retain elements of the building’s late 19th century architectural details intact and creating a contemporary atmosphere that pays homage to Cobb’s original design.

In addition to the adaptive reuse scope, HPA provided design of interior amenity spaces and coordinated the extensive restoration effort with the National Park Service.

AIA Chicago – Design Excellence Award – Distinguished Building, Citation of Merit

Gold Key Hospitality Award – Best Hotel | Upscale – Boutique Design Magazine

HD Award – Public Spaces (Lifestyle) – Hospitality Design Magazine

HD Award (Finalist) – Hotel (Luxury/Upscale) – Hospitality Design Magazine

Landmarks Illinois Richard H. Driehaus Foundation – Preservation Award for Rehabilitation

ULI Chicago Vision Award – Historic Preservation

Chicago Building Congress Merit Award – Rehab Construction