Chicago’s rich history and brilliant future converge at Wolf Point

Chicago, IL, USA

Wolf Point is an extraordinary mixed-use development on Chicago’s riverfront that features Salesforce Tower Chicago and two luxury residential towers, all connected by a lush public park and Riverwalk. This unique building site is at the confluence of the Chicago River’s three branches, home to the city’s first commercial settlement in the early nineteenth century. Across from the historic Merchandise Mart (once the largest building in the world) and steps away from cultural destinations, shopping, and dining, Wolf Point is a modern landmark that celebrates a magnificent city.

2.3 acre
public park
The historic 1909 Burnham Plan of Chicago from Wolf Point.
"Wolf Point’s location on this prominent turn of the Chicago River is entirely unique — and that it has not been built on since the 1940s is phenomenal. This is an incredible opportunity to create highly accessible public outdoor space and landmark buildings that contribute to Chicago’s skyline." — Mark Shoemaker, AIA  
A new urban park along the famed Chicago Riverwalk creates an open and active space for tenants and visitors.

The foundation for an urban riverside community 

The master plan for Wolf Point responds to the specific context of this historic area with iconic architecture and landscape that embodies the best of the city’s modern buildings. As a key development in the extensive transformation of the riverfront, Wolf Point is at the heart of the Chicago Riverwalk, a scenic waterfront path that extends from Lake Shore Drive and Lake Michigan to Lake Street.

The towers are designed to touch the ground lightly, creating transparency that spotlights the surrounding green space and fosters a welcoming community destination. An expansive public park stretches between the towers with over two acres of native trees, flowers, and grasses. The park’s lush gardens and lawns are an invitation for residents, professionals, and visitors to relax, socialize, and enjoy beautiful river views in the urban outdoors.

More About the Project

Project Team

Principal Collaborators

  • Architects of Record: Pappageorge Haymes Partners, HKS Architects
  • Structural Engineering: Magnusson Klemencic Associates
  • MEP: Cosentini Associates, Alvine Engineering

Project Information

  • Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA
  • Client: Hines, the Kennedy Family, AFL-CIO Building Investment Trust
  • Size: 2 million sq. ft. / 185,806 sq. m.
  • Completion: 2016
  • Firm Role: Master planner
  • Photography: Jason O'Rear