As CAI-Illinois celebrates 50 Years of Excellence, Common Interest Magazine highlights a Chicago landmark that embodies the spirit of association living: Marina City Condominiums.
Situated along the Chicago River between State and Dearborn Streets, Marina City spans a 3.1-acre campus featuring two iconic 65-story residential towers, a theater, and commercial spaces. Designed by architect Bertrand Goldberg and completed in 1962, the towers were converted to condominiums in 1977. Originally envisioned as a “city within a city,” Marina City was created to draw residents back to downtown Chicago during a period of suburban migration.
Over the decades, the complex has evolved while preserving its distinctive character. The campus once included a marina, bowling alley, plaza, and seasonal ice rink. Today, the theater houses the House of Blues, the marina remains active, and the towers’ unmistakable “corn cob” silhouette continues to define Chicago’s skyline.
Beyond its architectural significance, Marina City stands out for its governance complexity. The residential condominium association operates within a larger umbrella structure that includes shared responsibilities for parking, retail, marina, and entertainment spaces. Coordinating easements, infrastructure projects, and commercial operations require constant collaboration and thoughtful stewardship.
Daily life inside the towers blends history with practicality. From valet-only parking systems to unique elevator operations and celestial-themed unit placards honoring the building’s founders, Marina City remains both functional and iconic. A vibrant social committee and recently restored rooftop decks continue to foster community engagement.
The association has worked diligently to preserve affordability while maintaining architectural integrity. Partnerships with organizations like Friends of the Chicago River further reinforce its civic role.
For more than half a century, Marina City has demonstrated adaptability, collaboration, and long-term stewardship—qualities that mirror CAI-IL’s own mission of strengthening communities.
Read the whole article in our Spring 2025 edition of the Common Interest Magazine and find more editions of the Common Interest Magazine by clicking on the link below.
Common Interest – Winter 2025 :: 50
CAI - Illinois Chapter
The Illinois Chapter of Community Associations Institute serves the educational, business, and networking needs of community associations in the Chicagoland Area. Members include condominium, cooperative, and homeowner...
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Todd Eichholz 
