Pre-leasing has begun at 61 Banks Street, the eight-story, 58-unit boutique rental building developed by Draper and Kramer at Banks Street and Lake Shore Drive—the last undeveloped lakefront parcel in Chicago’s premier Gold Coast neighborhood. First move-ins are expected to take place this May.
“Chicago’s Lake Michigan frontage between Oak Street and North Avenue is one of the city’s most iconic destinations for lakefront living, but there hasn’t been a new residential building constructed along this stretch of Lake Shore Drive since the early 1980s,” said Todd Bancroft, president and CEO of Draper and Kramer. “With 61 Banks Street, we had a truly one-of-a-kind location where we wanted to create a building that evokes the timeless appeal and classic elegance of this neighborhood while also bringing today’s luxury rental experience and all it entails to this section of the lakefront for the first time.”
Designed by award-winning architecture firm Booth Hansen, 61 Banks Street features an elegant stone façade accented by architectural bays, which allow for panoramic views of Lake Michigan or the surrounding neighborhood from many units. The building includes a mix of two- and three-bedroom residences ranging from 1,700 to 2,400 square feet. Additionally, the property includes seven two-story, rowhome-style maisonettes with private terraces and direct street-level entrances lining the base of the building.
All residences at 61 Banks Street feature open layouts with modern gourmet kitchens, spa-style bathrooms, in-unit laundry rooms, 10-foot ceilings and expanses of floor-to-ceiling windows. Each unit is appointed with finishes selected by interior architect Darcy Bonner & Associates, including engineered wide-plank flooring, custom European cabinetry, premium quartz countertops, and built-in Bosch and Jenn-Air stainless steel appliances.
“These are gracious homes, in size as well as in the many special details they feature,” said Bancroft. “In an area such as the Gold Coast, where people are seeking both generous space and high-caliber finishes, 61 Banks Street stands apart in not only meeting those requirements, but also offering the flexibility of rental living. You no longer have to own to enjoy the craftsmanship that’s long been associated with a Gold Coast address.”
Amenities at 61 Banks Street are designed to complement individual apartments and create a service-driven residential experience. A private rooftop club, which will be available to all residents, features a glass-enclosed lounge, library, kitchen and well-equipped fitness center. Additionally, a lushly landscaped roof terrace with outdoor seating, dining areas and grilling stations will showcase the building’s lakefront and skyline views. Managed by Draper and Kramer, 61 Banks Street also features a full-time hotel-style concierge, 24-hour doorman, valet parking and an underground garage with electric vehicle charging stations and secure bicycle storage.
@properties is the exclusive leasing brokerage for 61 Banks Street, whose residences are already 25 percent leased.
“There’s been significant anticipation around 61 Banks Street, particularly among those who have been watching it rise along Lake Shore Drive since we started construction last year,” said Bancroft. “With leasing now officially underway, the early response has been tremendous. We’re eager to introduce discerning renters to what sets this building apart as we prepare to welcome our first residents later this spring.”
