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Condos for Sale at The Palmolive Building Chicago, IL
The Palmolive Building, an iconic fixture in Chicago's skyline, is a historic Art Deco skyscraper located at 159 East Walton Place in the prestigious Gold Coast neighborhood. Originally completed in 1929 as the headquarters for the Colgate-Palmolive-Peet Company, this architectural gem was transformed into luxury condominiums in the early 2000s, offering a unique blend of historic charm and modern elegance.
The building stands 37 stories tall and is renowned for its distinctive design, featuring limestone cladding and intricate detailing that reflect its Art Deco heritage. The Palmolive Building houses 99 exclusive residences, ranging from spacious one-bedroom units to expansive penthouses. Each condominium is meticulously designed with high-end finishes, including custom cabinetry, marble bathrooms, and gourmet kitchens, while many units offer sweeping views of Lake Michigan and the city.
Residents of The Palmolive enjoy a suite of luxury amenities that enhance their living experience. These include a state-of-the-art fitness center, a spa, and a private club room for social gatherings. The building also offers 24-hour door staff, concierge services, and valet parking, ensuring convenience and security for all residents.
The Palmolive's location in the Gold Coast provides easy access to some of Chicago's finest dining, shopping, and cultural attractions. It is just steps away from the Magnificent Mile, Oak Street Beach, and the vibrant nightlife of Rush Street, making it an ideal residence for those seeking a dynamic urban lifestyle.
Overall, The Palmolive Building represents the pinnacle of luxury living in Chicago, combining historic elegance with modern amenities in one of the city's most coveted neighborhoods.
The Palmolive Building: A Historic Landmark in Chicago
This iconic Art Deco skyscraper known as The Palmolive Building is located in Chicago’s Streeterville neighborhood. It stands as a testament to the city’s architectural prowess and rich history. Originally completed in 1929, this historic building began as home to many corporate headquarters and is now converted to luxurious residences, captivating both history buffs and modern urban dwellers alike.
Originally designed by the renowned architectural firm Holabird & Root, The Palmolive Building began as the headquarters for the Palmolive Soap Company hence its name. Upon its completion, the building was one of the tallest in Chicago, showcasing the booming economy of the late 1920s.
The building was sold in 2001 to developer Draper and Kramer. They paired with Booth Hansen Architects and converted it to residential use, with the first two floors dedicated to upscale office and retail space.
The Palmolive Building features a distinctive Art Deco design, characterized by its ornate detailing and striking silhouette. Its rich limestone façade stands at 37 stories high. The Palmolive Building is more than just a residence; it embodies Chicago's rich architectural history and cultural vibrancy. Its Art Deco elegance, combined with modern amenities and a prime location, makes it a desirable place to live. As the city continues to evolve, the Palmolive Building remains a cherished landmark, reminding us of Chicago's storied past while embracing the future.
The Palmolive Building: Art Deco Grandeur on the Magnificent Mile
Standing as a beacon of architectural history at the northern end of the Magnificent Mile, The Palmolive Building at 159 E Walton Pl is one of Chicago’s most prestigious residential addresses. This landmark tower, originally known as the Playboy Building, seamlessly blends its storied Art Deco heritage with the sophisticated luxuries required by today’s most discerning homeowners.
As a luxury real estate broker with over 15 years of experience specializing in high-end properties from the Gold Coast to River North, I consider The Palmolive a true "trophy" building. It offers a level of prestige and historic character that is simply impossible to replicate in modern construction.
Building Overview & Architecture
Completed in 1929 and designed by the legendary firm Holabird & Root, The Palmolive Building is a masterpiece of Art Deco design. Originally built as an office headquarters, it underwent a meticulous residential conversion in 2002, preserving its limestone exterior and iconic setbacks while creating some of the city's most exclusive private residences.
Key building details:
Address: 159 E Walton Place
Neighborhood: Streeterville / Gold Coast
Completed: 1929 (Converted to condos in 2002)
Building Type: Historic Art Deco High-Rise; 37 stories
The building is crowned by the famous Lindbergh Beacon, which historically guided pilots into Chicago. Its architectural significance has earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places and status as an official Chicago Landmark.
Floor Plans & Layouts
The residences at The Palmolive are known for their grand proportions and high-style interiors. Because the building was converted from an office tower, the floor plans are exceptionally unique, often featuring gallery-like hallways and expansive living areas.
Typical layout and interior features include:
Bespoke Residences: Layouts range from sophisticated two-bedrooms to full-floor penthouses with 360-degree views.
Exquisite Finishes: Many units feature custom millwork, coffered ceilings, and professional-grade kitchens with Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances.
Luxury Baths: Marble-clad primary suites often include steam showers, soaking tubs, and heated floors.
Stunning Vistas: The building’s location and tiered design offer breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, Oak Street Beach, and the sparkling city skyline.
The transition from the historic wood-paneled elevators into the private foyers of these homes creates an immediate sense of arrival and exclusivity.
Amenities & Resident Services
Life at The Palmolive is defined by a white-glove service standard and a curated suite of amenities designed for privacy and comfort.
Amenities include:
The Beacon Club: An exclusive resident-only club featuring a private bar, lounge, and dining facilities—perfect for hosting intimate gatherings.
Fitness Center & Spa: A state-of-the-art health club and spa with private treatment rooms.
Full-Service Concierge: 24-hour door staff and a dedicated concierge team to handle everything from reservations to private deliveries.
Valet Parking: Secure, heated garage with professional valet services for residents and guests.
Pet-Friendly: A welcoming environment for residents with pets, located just steps from lakefront walking paths.
The Streeterville & Gold Coast Neighborhood
Situated at the intersection of Walton and Michigan Avenue, The Palmolive provides immediate access to the absolute best of Chicago luxury.
Residents are just steps from:
Oak Street Shopping: The world’s most elite fashion houses, including Prada, Chanel, and Giorgio Armani.
Oak Street Beach: Direct access to the lakefront path and the sands of one of the city's most beautiful beaches.
Fine Dining: Walking distance to culinary staples like The Alston, Adalina, and Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse.
Cultural Icons: Proximity to the Museum of Contemporary Art and the historic Drake Hotel.
A Landmark Legacy
The Palmolive Building is more than just a place to live; it is a piece of Chicago history. For those who appreciate architectural pedigree and a location that sits at the center of the city's social and cultural pulse, it remains an unrivaled choice.
If you’re considering buying or selling in Chicago, I’d be happy to provide a personalized overview of what this great city has to offer, complete with market analysis and neighborhood insight.
