The Solstice on the Park Tower by Studio Gang Architects is a site specific passive solar residential tower to be built in South Chicago adjacent to Jackson Park. A substantial portion of glazing on the southern face of the 26 story tower is tilted to significantly reduce heat gain in summer but maintain solar exposure in the winter. The façade’s angle off vertical is calibrated to Chicago’s latitude resulting in a 71 degree pitch. The program consists of 145 units stacked in phases of four stories to accommodate the angled face. The offset face steps back to provide a walkout for the apartments above. Offices, a community room, conference space and gardens are also incorporated.

Relative to commercial buildings, residential buildings have a small internal heat load and can gain more efficiencies from winter solar exposure. The angled glazing also provides unique solar gain control in the summer months that still provides natural light. East and west wall fenestration is incorporated where sheer is not required. Built for a projected LEED Silver certification the building’s outstanding energy profile will be complimented by a green roof, rain water catchment, passive cooling, and other sustainable features including an aggressive IAQ profile. The project’s location with a large public park just to the south ensures solar gain will be preserved for the building’s lifetime.