DESIGN : SOHO HOUSE CHICAGO
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CHICAGO
The Rooftop includes a 60-foot ( 18- meter ) pool and terrace with views of the Chicago skyline that Soho House Founder and CEO Nick Jones says convinced him the space was right for the brand .
Soho House chose a warehouse dating back to the turn of the 20th century for its newest members ’ club and hotel to create a space combining style and comfort .
by ANN BAGEL STORCK , MANAGING EDITOR
For Soho House , the brand founded in London almost 20 years ago as a private members ’ club for those working in the creative industries , the process of scouting a new location always begins with finding the right space — often a very involved process . The selection of Soho House Chicago was no different , with the group choosing an industrial warehouse dating back to 1907 for its 12th house , which also includes a 40-room hotel component .
“ When I walked out onto the roof of the Chicago house , I could envision the pool against the skyline — it was a gut reaction ,” recalls Soho House Founder and CEO Nick Jones . “ The building also has a rich history , which ultimately inspired the final design concept and use of the space . It has been a perfect fit .”
The building originally was commissioned as the headquarters of the Chicago Belting Co ., and it remains one of the city ’ s best examples of concrete industrial loft design . Soho House Global Design Director Vicky Charles confirms the in-house design team aimed to preserve as many of the building ’ s original elements
28 HOTELS December 2014 www . hotelsmag . com