Transforming the United Center: A Bold New Vision for Chicago's Near West Side
Chicago Tribune•2 weeks ago•
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Transforming the United Center: A Bold New Vision for Chicago's Near West Side

Design Trends
unitedcenter
urbandevelopment
architecture
publicspaces
chicago
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Summary:

  • United Center redevelopment aims to transform the area around it into a vibrant community hub.

  • The 1901 Project includes plans for 9,463 dwelling units and 25 acres of open space.

  • Initial phase features a 6,000-seat music hall and rooftop parks open to the public.

  • Concerns over the sidewalk experience and accessibility of new public spaces.

  • The project raises questions about the balance between public and private control of urban spaces.

For decades, a trip to the United Center felt disconnected from Chicago’s vibrant urban fabric. While the West Loop has seen a surge in bars and businesses nearby, the 23,500-seat arena has been surrounded by a sea of surface parking lots — a design choice that has long been criticized.

Historical Context

The United Center, built in 1994, was designed with a suburban mentality, prioritizing car access over public transportation. This model not only alienated local neighborhoods but also contributed to the decline of surrounding areas, making them reliant on game-day traffic without providing real benefits to local residents.

The 1901 Project

The recent approval of the 1901 Project marks a significant shift. This large-scale redevelopment plan spans 16 city blocks and aims to transform the area into a thriving community hub. The project includes:

  • Up to 9,463 dwelling units
  • 1,309 hotel rooms
  • Over 25 acres of open space

The initial phase will introduce three structures within three years: a 6,000-seat music hall, a 233-room hotel, and a parking garage, all featuring rooftop parks accessible to the public. The design, led by RIOS and Field Operations, promises to enhance the landscape while integrating community spaces.

Architectural Considerations

While the music hall's glassy lobby is promising, the overall design needs refinement to align with Chicago’s architectural legacy. The proposed hotel, with its undulating mass, lacks distinctiveness, raising questions about its impact on the skyline.

Sidewalk Experience

A critical aspect of urban design is the sidewalk experience. The project aims to create welcoming spaces, but concerns linger about the potential for a comfortable pedestrian environment. The integration of retail and commercial spaces at ground level is essential to foster community interaction.

Public vs. Private Spaces

A significant concern remains regarding the management of these new parks. The Chicago Park District is not involved, placing control in the hands of private developers. This raises questions about accessibility and the true public nature of these spaces in a city known for its green initiatives.

As Chicagoans, we must advocate for public spaces that genuinely serve the community, reflecting the city’s motto, “Urbs in Horto” (“city in a garden”).

Edward Keegan writes, broadcasts, and teaches on architectural subjects.

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