Aqua is a mixed-use skyscraper at 225 North Columbus Drive in downtown Chicago, designed by Jeanne Gang of Studio Gang, her first skyscraper. James Loewenberg of Loewenberg & Associates was architect of record, and Magellan Development Group developed it. Construction began in February 2007 and finished in 2009 at a cost of $300 million. The article calls the style contemporary.
The tower has 82 stories and stands 859 feet (261.8 m) tall. Irregular concrete floor slabs form the facade. Balconies extend 2 to 12 feet and were inspired by layered limestone outcroppings. A roof garden of about 82,550 square feet helps cool the building. It holds a hotel, rental apartments, condominiums, retail and offices.
It was the world's tallest building designed by a woman until 2020. It won the 2009 Emporis Skyscraper Award.
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