Big Star River North

Present Future Architects teamed up with One Off Hospitality to explore a Big Star concept in the River North neighborhood. A fascinating challenge to this site was an existing billboard that had to remain. The new structure responded to this element by how it cascades around it so as not to obstruct the views of the sign. This gestural approach to the massing carried through to the outdoor courtyard and created a perfect balance of shelter from the busy street, integration of plantings, structure for lighting and an intrigue for onlookers passing by. The building is clad in a patchwork of weathered corrugated metal profiles and the roof deck is locally sourced cross laminated timber. The combination of natural materials and the interior connection to the courtyard provides a unique contrast to the surrounding tall buildings.