Plan Commission Approves 1338 West Lake Street Development in Chicago’s West Loop

Major Mixed-Use Tower Moves Forward in the West Loop

A major new residential development is moving closer to construction after the Chicago Plan Commission approved updated plans for 1338 West Lake Street in the West Loop. Located at the corner of West Lake Street and North Ada Street, the project has been in planning for several years and now takes an important step toward final city approval.

The mixed-use development, led by Cedar Street Companies and designed by architecture firm SCB, reflects continued investment and residential growth in one of Chicago’s fastest-evolving neighborhoods.

Project Details and Design Updates

The approved plan calls for a 32-story residential tower rising approximately 364 feet, built above a six-story podium. The development includes a blend of housing, retail, and resident amenities designed to improve street-level activity and better connect with the surrounding neighborhood.

Key features include:

• 321 total residential units

• 65 affordable housing units

• Approximately 7,800 square feet of retail space

• 191 parking spaces, reduced from earlier proposals

• Large outdoor deck and multiple amenity levels

• Rooftop pool and additional resident spaces

Recent revisions focused heavily on improving the podium design. Plans now introduce “liner units” along Ada Street, which place residential units along the exterior to create a more active and visually appealing street presence while screening parking areas from view.

How the Project Has Evolved

The development has undergone multiple design updates since first being proposed. Earlier versions called for a smaller tower with fewer residential units and parking spaces. The revised plans increased building height and density while expanding retail space and improving pedestrian experience at street level.

The site itself previously housed the former Hindman Auctions buildings, which are being replaced as part of the redevelopment.

The project carries an estimated $155 million investment, highlighting the scale of continued development activity in the West Loop.

Why This Matters for the West Loop

The West Loop has transformed dramatically over the past decade, evolving from a primarily industrial district into one of Chicago’s most sought-after residential and lifestyle neighborhoods. New projects like 1338 West Lake Street continue to shape the area’s skyline while adding housing supply near transit, employment centers, and dining destinations.

Key trends reflected by this project include:

• Continued demand for mixed-use urban living

• Integration of affordable housing within new developments

• Increased focus on street-level design and walkability

• Higher-density construction near transit and employment hubs

As more large-scale developments move forward, the neighborhood continues to strengthen its position as a major residential and investment destination in Chicago.

What Comes Next

Although the Plan Commission has approved the project, it must still receive final approval from City Council before construction can begin. If approved, developers are targeting a Q4 2026 groundbreaking with completion projected for Q3 2028.

This timeline means the project will contribute to the next wave of residential growth expected in the West Loop over the coming years.

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