A closer look at Navy Pier’s 222-room hotel, opening in 2019

A 222-room hotel proposed for the east end of Chicago’s Navy Pier is preparing to officially break ground—or wharf?—as early as January 2018 in anticipation of a summer 2019 delivery date. The construction timetable was announced today by Chicago-based developer First Hospitality Group and comes on the heels of a pre-construction demolition permit that was issued for the project in October.

The news was accompanied by updated renderings from Chicago architecture firm KOO LLC. The Jackie Koo-led outfit designed the glassy seven-story hotel with floor to ceiling windows to maximize views of Lake Michigan and space for a 30,000-square-foot rooftop bar in addition to a restaurant at promenade level.

Though the name of the hotel has yet be be revealed, it was confirmed that Curio Collection by Hilton will serve as its operator. Switzerland-based real estate firm Acron will act as equity partner on the Navy Pier project.

KOO LLC

The hotel development is just one of many improvements to come to the popular tourist destination. Recent upgrades include a larger climate-controlled ferris wheel, an expansion of the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, a major overhaul of the Pier’s landscaping, and the addition of a performance lawn and play fountain at Polk Bros. Park.

Future plans are also on the table for an elevated semi-circular walkway that would rise over a shallow reflecting pool located east of the planned hotel. This scenic overlook comes from James Corner Field Operations, the architect behind New York’s High Line linear park.

KOO LLC

• Navy Pier hotel is officially a go [Curbed Chicago]
• Navy Pier reveals plan for hotel, lake overlook [Curbed Chicago]
• Hotel Planned for Chicago’s Navy Pier [Curbed Chicago]