Chicago, Complemented
NEMA is infused with subtle references to Chicago's history and culture, as well as connections to the natural grandeur and beauty of Grant Park.
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Viewed at city scale, NEMA is an instant landmark that serves as a skyline bookend for the 1,136-foot Aon Center on Grant Park’s north end.
— Blair Kamin, Chicago Tribune
The Architect
NEMA Chicago's world-renowned architect, Rafael Viñoly, is internationally recognized for creating skyline landmarks, such as 432 Park Avenue in New York City – the tallest residential tower in the western hemisphere and one of the world’s most expensive addresses – and important cultural venues like the Tokyo International Forum. A seminal modernist, Viñoly is known for his high aesthetic and for treating architecture like art, all while creating designs that respond to technological, programmatic, and environmental cues. Viñoly is the perfect maestro to envision NEMA, an icon of the Chicago skyline brought to life by an award-winning brand.
NEMA Chicago is not just an architectural idea, but an urban design idea.
— Rafael Viñoly
Chicago, a city with an iconic urban plan by Daniel Burnham, is known for its assortment of modernist towers remarkable for their height, structural legibility, and aesthetics. Rafael Viñoly has crafted a classic addition to this pantheon, one that is authentically Chicago—both modernist in form and reflective of the city’s past.
Arrival
NEMA's interiors are designed by the renowned Rockwell Group. The lobby greets residents with its unique blend of contemporary design and gorgeous raw materials. David Rockwell’s approach channels the structural expression of Chicago's iconic architecture and plays with the idea of the city grid to create a chic, modern, welcoming home in the heart of Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood near Downtown.
Interior Architect
Chicago native David Rockwell is the founder and president of Rockwell Group, and one of the most creative people working in architecture and design practice in America today. His projects range from Nobu restaurants and hotels worldwide and New York's EDITION hotel to the Tony Award-winning set for the Broadway revival of "She Loves Me." Rockwell is an imaginative genius with a special ability to develop a unique narrative for each project. Clean lines and strong materials connect NEMA to the surrounding city in a sophisticated and contemporary way, elevating it above other high-rise residences.
Art
NEMA Chicago boldly embraces the brand’s commitment to art. From lobbies to residential corridors and amenity areas, NEMA is adorned with a variety of multi-media pieces by local and renowned artists, often showcasing local inspiration, and always thoughtfully curated to create an elevated sense of home for residents.
Sustainability
NEMA Chicago is both built and operated with a variety of sustainable features, including interiors designed with recycled materials and landscaped outdoor spaces that minimize the urban heat island effect. NEMA is an environmentally conscious member of its community, designed to meet the demanding LEED standards.
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Transit-Oriented Location
NEMA’s South Loop location is within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and multiple modes of transportation. With a walking score of 91, a transit score of 100 and a bike score of 90, NEMA Chicago is a walker, rider, and biker paradise (according to walkscore.com).
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Efficient Water Use
Storm water retention tanks are used to lessen impact to city sewer system by holding water on site and releasing when system side loads lessened. Green roofs further reduce the amount of rain water directed to the city sewer system.
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Sustainable Site
NEMA and the surrounding site have been designed to minimize heat island effect by selecting materials that reflect rather than absorb heat.
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Air Quality
100% smoke-free, NEMA also selects paints and finishes based on their low chemical content to improve air quality for all residents and staff.
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Green Cleaning
NEMA uses cleaning products and practices with lower health and environmental impact.
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Certification
NEMA Chicago is a LEED Silver certified project.
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Energy Efficiency
Water source heat pumps minimize energy usage of the central plant; control via digital thermostat offers pre-set energy saving program settings. Modulating natural gas boilers allow for up to 99% flame efficiency in the water heating process, saving on gas usage. Energy Star-certified appliances and programmable thermostats allow for energy savings when units are not occupied.
The Developer
Crescent Heights is one of the nation's leading urban real estate firms, specializing in the development, ownership, and operation of architecturally distinctive mixed-use high-rises in major cities across the United States. The company's 30-year history demonstrates its commitment to creatively designed, uniquely amenitized and fully-serviced residential and hotel projects. The architecture, interiors, and amenities of each Crescent Heights Community are infused with the history, climate, and character of the building's local neighborhood. With a focus on both public and interior art and extensive lifestyle programming, Crescent Heights manages its projects to create authentic, positive experiences.