Integrated Development Group
850 Lake Shore Drive
Salas O’Brien delivered full engineering services for a new LEED-certified residential building and amenities.
Our client
Founded by Matthew K. Phillips, the Northbrook-based Integrated Development Group company won praise from preservationists for saving Chicago’s historic Lake Shore Athletic Club building from demolition. This company’s work includes the development and management of residential properties in both New York and Chicago.
Project highlights
Their challenge
Integrated Development engaged our team to create a repurpose design to turn the former 19-story building into a high-end luxury apartment complex. This building resides in one of the most desirable locations in the city, so our client needed someone who could transform this building into one that would stand out from the rest. This building had been through its fair share of wear and tear, used as student housing for Northwestern University students after also serving as Chicago’s historic 1928 Lake Shore Athletic Club. As a result, this building required many modern mechanical, electrical, and shell and core updates. An added challenge: the client wanted our design to preserve some of the common areas where possible, and the entire building process would be closely monitored due to the facility’s high profile.
Our solution
To meet the challenge, our team provided full mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection design services for the building, bringing it up to par with LEED certification. Our design included 200 residential units that feature one or two bedrooms, as well as 40,000 square feet of 200 valet parking spaces and car elevators in the basement, first, second, and fourth floors. To allow residents unencumbered views of and access to the lake, our design also incorporated amenities such as a rooftop sky-deck and a newly renovated dog park. Other features include an indoor swimming pool, spa, lounge, and modern fitness center.
The results
With front door access to Chicago’s renowned beaches, boutiques, and cuisine, this former historic wonder called for an exceptionally high standard of design. Our team rose to the challenge and successfully delivered a design that restored and modernized this building. It is LEED certified and safely functioning again, now as a luxurious and sophisticated residential retreat.


