2016 Chicago Prize - On the Edge

The Grand Lattice Entrances of Lake Shore Drive
Chicagoans are passionate about the city, the lake, and even the highway - the famous Lake Shore Drive. Our project seeks to intensify the experience of Lake Shore Drive by providing pedestrian access along the drive. Lake Shore Drive is no longer a driving-only experience. For the pedestrian, it becomes a gateway to access the waterfront, see the city, and admire the lake.

Lattices on the Drive
Chicago is known for its post-and-beam, steel-frame construction which provides the bones for all the magnificent buildings in the city. The idea of the open lattice structure takes on the fundamental bare bones of steel-frame construction without the need of a facade. As seen from Lake Shore Drive, the lattice structures serve as successive landmarks for the underpasses beneath.

The Grand Entrance
From many blocks away, the lattice structure at each underpass serves as a signal that the lakefront is just beyond. Each Grand Entrance is a unique figure that gives an identity to each access street.

The Vertical Access Point
The tunnel effect is a result of the underpass condition where pedestrians pass through as quickly as possible. The north- and south-bound lanes often split, creating an in-between space that is open to above. We use this as an opportunity to give the pedestrian a vertical access point above Lake Shore Drive by inserting a lattice structure. For the first time, the pedestrian can enjoy views to the lake and city from above Lake Shore Drive.