Chicago, the Beantown. Surely, the city doesn’t need an introduction: as a city with a population of 2.5 million of people (not for nothing, it’s the third most populous city in the U.S.!) and a metropolitan area of 10 million people, it’s a mandatory stop for every one. Maybe, you have been to Chicago before – and would like to call the city “Windy city” for the icy breezes blowing on Lake Michigan – to participate in the numerous design events that the city supports and encourages, or you haven’t still set foot in the city. It doesn’t matter: let yourself be inspired by its iconic skyline and the audacious architecture with the famous John Hancock Center, the 1,450-foot skyscraper (the second tallest building in the United States!) and the 3,300-foot-long Navy Pier on Lake Michigan, one of the most visited attractions of the area. And don’t forget to check out the Chicago cultural and artistic atmosphere! Do you want some tips for your next trip to Chicago? Keep reading our CHICAGO DESIGN GUIDE!

CHICAGO DESIGN GUIDE

WHERE TO STAY

THE ROBEY

Situated at the formerly known Northwest Tower, The Robey hotel presents 89 room in the only skyscraper for miles. Belgian design duo Nicolas Schuybroek Architects and Marc Merckx Interiors combined two different historic buildings, a 1929 office building and a 1905 warehouse, an industrial-styled place renovated by DELORDINAIRE architects.

It will be really hard to choose between the tower rooms – which thanks to the triangular shape of the building receive plenty of natural light – and annex lofts, which shines for the multiple configurations.

Relaxing and chilling a bit won’t be absolutely a problem: The Up Room, sitting atop the tallest building at the 13^th floor, is a rooftop cocktail lounge that displays an amazing view of Chicago skyline; instead, the Cabana Club – opened only during the hotter months – offers true American dishes appropriate to be eaten at the pool’s edges. Can you possibly want more?

Location: 2018 W North Ave, Chicago.

WHERE TO EAT

THE AVIARY

Prepare yourself for a very swanky experience at The Aviary: this cocktail bar – under the care of award-winning chef Grant Achatz – will surprise your taste buds with its molecular gastronomy menu and the care and attention that only a professional atmosphere can donate. For a full taste, try to order a multi-course cocktail tasting menu, you won’t regret it! And if you strive for a more particular and intimate setting, try The Office, right underneath The Aviary: a posh speakeasy, the elegant and classical setting will recreate the perfect experience and don’t worry about its exclusivity: it is only accessible by invitation or booking private parties. A truly exclusive place of our CHICAGO DESIGN GUIDE!

Location: 955 W Fulton Market, Chicago.

WHAT TO DO

HAUTE LIVING SHOWROOM

Located in Chicago’s River North Design District, Haute Living Showroom is the high-end choice of every true-born Chicagoan looking for the best name modern and contemporary interior design can offer. Let yourself immerse into the Chicago design community and visit the showroom: its specialty is looking for and promoting emerging designers and progressive brands, while small gathering will bring all the best names of design within your grasp.

Location: 213 W Institute Pl, Chicago.

THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE

If vintage furniture and artifacts are your passion, you need to set foot at the Golden Triangle, where owners Douglas Van Tress and Chauwarin Tuntisak – with their more than three decades of experience – will surely give some good tips on particular and extravagant pieces. The 18,000 sq. ft store has been assembled to let all the European and Asian antiques shine through; surely, you won’t be going home empty-handed.