Construction has reached a key milestone on a new mixed-use residential development in Chicago's Fulton Market district. Focus has completed the structural framework for 1221 W. Washington, advancing the project toward interior construction and building enclosure as work continues ahead of its planned 2027 opening.
Located at 1221 W. Washington Boulevard, the 19-story development encompasses approximately 286,232 square feet. Designed by Pappageorge Haymes, the building features a concrete podium with a brick exterior at the lower levels and a glass curtain wall extending through the upper floors.
Focus is serving as both the project developer and general contractor.
Upon completion, the development will provide 287 rental apartments consisting of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. The project also includes approximately 2,700 square feet of ground-floor retail space and 110 parking spaces.
Resident amenities will total more than 25,000 square feet and include rooftop decks with a swimming pool and grilling areas, a spa with an indoor hot tub and sauna, fitness facilities, yoga and cycling studios, coworking spaces and dedicated pet amenities.
Luxury Living is overseeing marketing and leasing activities, while Partner's by Design is responsible for interior design services.
The development is being delivered through a joint venture led by Focus in partnership with DAC Developments and Melrose Ascension Capital. Financing for the project has been provided by CIBC and Heitman.
Initial apartment deliveries are expected to begin in January 2027.
Chicago's multifamily development pipeline continues to focus on mixed-use projects in high-demand urban neighborhoods where new housing supply remains limited. Projects that combine residential units with retail and lifestyle amenities continue to shape investment activity in established mixed-use districts.
For construction owners, developers and contractors, the topping-out milestone marks the transition from structural work to exterior enclosure and interior build-out, keeping the project on schedule for tenant occupancy.
Source: Work With Focus.
