The Aquitania

The Aquitania is a luxurious fifteen-story residential building in the Classical Revival style, located in Chicago's Uptown neighborhood. Listed as a historic landmark, it has an eventful past: developed by film producer George K. Spoor, who was associated with the Essanay Studio, the building was completed in 1923. The name honors the famous ocean liner RMS Aquitania. Originally situated right on the shore of Lake Michigan, the building now sits somewhat inland, since the lakefront park and Lake Shore Drive pushed the shoreline outward. Visitors can admire the elegant Art Moderne lobby and the courtyard. Converted into a cooperative in 1949, the building combines echoes of film history with the grand architecture of the early twentieth century.