Chicago’s largest hospital network is constantly in a process of development, with the primary project being the recent completion of the new Outpatient Care Pavilion at 259 East Erie. The building will house new outpatient operating rooms, a center for diagnostic equipment such as magnetic resonance imaging machines, and eight floors dedicated to be clinical offices. Two “skybridges” will connect the building to primary hospital building along with a parking garage. Also, new retail shops will open on the ground floor of the facility, providing a additional sources of commerce to the neighborhood.
In the past 20 years, the Northwestern campus in Streeterville has undergone a series of construction projects. One of the most ambitious was the completion of the Feinberg and Galter Pavillions, with both being 17 and 22 stories respectively. Now serving as the primary hospital for the downtown metropolitan area, Northwestern Memorial is nationally ranked as the sixth best hospital in the United States according to US News and World Report.
The recent demolition of the old Prentice Women’s Hospital Building, despite efforts to save the building because of its unique architecture, has led to speculation as to what will be built on the now open lot. Consistent growth has spurned the hospital to continue to buy up as many open lots as possible, with one large space east of the Feinberg Pavilion supposedly being reserved for a massive new development.
Old Prentice Women’s Hospital Building
Photo Courtesy of Umbugbene CC BY
New Outpatient Care Pavilion
Rendering courtesy of Streeterville Organization of Active Residents
Architecture Outlook Chicago 