Build It Bigger: Design of Al Hamra
The Al Hamra Tower is one of the largest skyscrapers in the world. Unlike any other skyscrapers, it is the only one with a design that was truly inspired by its environment.
Latest Posts
William F. Baker: The Innovative Form and Structure of Burj Khalifa
William F. Baker, SOM Partner in Charge of Structural and Civil Engineering, speaks about the innovative form and structural system of the Burj Khalifa — currently the world’s tallest free-standing structure.
The Genesis of Digital Design at SOM
In the beginning, the Chicago office had a well established culture of innovation in multi-disciplinary design. Computers were big, expensive and slow. Memory was incredibly miniscule, breathtakingly expensive, and cumbersome. A small group of 20-something and 30-something architects and engineers in the computer group were intent on transforming the practice digitally, in the face of … Continued
Battle of the High-Rises: Which Tower Is America’s Tallest?
Two of America’s biggest cities are waiting to learn which one towers above all. In this televised story, CBS reports on a decision coming from the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat, which will make the call as to whether New York or Chicago has the country’s tallest building. Source: CBS
River Edge Ideas Lab Exhibition Opens at Chicago Architecture Foundation
The Chicago River Edge Ideas Lab’s traveling exhibit is on view at the Chicago Architecture Foundation. Originally presented as part of the 2017 Chicago Architecture Biennial, the exhibit explores the untapped potential of Chicago’s riverfront. The City of Chicago’s Department of Planning and Development, in collaboration with the Metropolitan Planning Council, initiated the exhibit as well as the related River Edge … Continued
SOM Hosts Panel on the Future of Public Space
On Wednesday, April 11th, SOM will host a panel discussion on the intersection of design and the public realm. The event celebrates the release of The Future of Public Space, a book that explores how different types of public space—urban and rural, real and virtual—impact our everyday experiences in an increasingly privatized world. Taking place at New … Continued
Luke Leung to Speak at IIT College of Architecture PhD Research Forum
On Thursday, March 29th, Luke Leung will speak at the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) College of Architecture’s Spring 2018 PhD Architecture Research Forum. The event invites faculty, PhD candidates, and visiting scholars and practitioners to present recent research to IIT students. Leung, Director of Sustainable Engineering, will discuss high performance design. ??In his presentation, “Urban Utopia,” Leung will share insight on how to create buildings … Continued
The Best Commercial Architects in New York City
The New York City skyline is an emblem of industry, commerce, and our ability to push the limits of engineering and design. The landscape is punctuated by Art Deco, Gothic, and contemporary towers that reflect the melange of individuals who pass through their grand lobbies and green plazas. Though the design firms behind the Chrysler … Continued
SOM Unveils Office Tower with Luxury Amenities for Chicago
Architecture firm Skidmore Owings and Merrill has revealed an 18-story office block planned for Chicago, including a terrace that overlooks the city’s trendy West Loop neighborhood. SOM’s The Porch is intended for Fulton Market district in the city’s West Loop, an area immediately west of Downtown that has become known for its upcoming contemporary design and food … Continued
Here’s What the Massive New Lincoln Yards Development Could Look Like
If you’ve gone for a drive on the Kennedy Expressway recently, you’ve probably noticed the giant billboard promoting Lincoln Yards, the new development that’s being constructed on the former site of the A. Finkl & Sons Steel plant. … A new batch of renderings released by developers Sterling Bay and architects Skidmore, Owings & Merrill … Continued