The Columbian

The Columbian is a residential tower located on South Michigan Avenue featuring 47 floors and 225 apartments wrapped in a distinctive red brick exterior. The building rises to about 517 feet (158 meters) and combines traditional masonry with contemporary living spaces designed for downtown dwellers.

This structure was built between 2005 and 2008 during a period when downtown Chicago expanded with new residential towers. The completion coincided with years when the city actively attracted people back to live in its core neighborhoods.

The building blends traditional brick facades with contemporary living spaces, showing how Chicago continues to respect its architectural roots. Residents and visitors see the exterior as a statement about maintaining classic materials in a city otherwise dominated by steel and glass.

The location on South Michigan Avenue provides easy access to public transportation and downtown shops, making car-free living straightforward. Visitors should note this is a private residential building with a single main entrance where access is controlled.

This building holds the distinction of being Chicago's tallest brick-clad structure, a notable achievement in a city known for steel and glass towers. The accomplishment shows that traditional materials can reach impressive heights when combined with modern construction methods.

Location: Illinois

Inception: 2008

Floors above the ground: 47

Elevators: 4

Website: http://thecolumbianchicago.com/home.asp

GPS coordinates: 41.86770,-87.62460

Latest update: December 9, 2025 20:25