DAMEN SILOS REDEVELOPMENT
2023
Digital Drawing
Chicago, IL
Opened in 1906, the Damen Silos have been a staple of McKinley Park for a century. Now as they face demolition, locals have called for a different solution.
Inspired by various silo-reconstructions globally, I saw the potential for a new mixed-use hub with newly restored green spaces for the community.
23-acres of riverfront
Once capable of handling over 400,000 bushels of wheat, the massive structures would be redeveloped with hotel, residential, and office components. All of the structures on-site would be retained and repaired for new uses, including a large boat house and field house.
The already built turning-basin would allow for a new terminus of the Chicago Water Taxi, providing a direct connection downtown. Additionally a large portion of the land would retain the vegetation which has found itself on property.
State Announces Sale Of Damen Silos
ChicagoYIMBY 2022
Site context map
Damen Silos redevelopment site plan
Current site overview
Redevelopment site plan
Current state of Damen Silos - Various sources
Silo precedent studies - Various sources