Sky-High Luxury: The $7.5 Million Sale of the 79th Floor Penthouse at St. Regis Chicago

In the dynamic realm of Chicago's luxury real estate, few properties captivate like the penthouses at The Residences at St. Regis Chicago. This striking 101-story tower, located at 363 E. Wacker Drive, epitomizes opulence, seamlessly merging world-class design with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline. Recently, the 79th-floor penthouse garnered attention with its $7.5 million off-market sale, highlighting the enduring allure of ultra-luxury living in the Windy City.

Completed in 2020 and designed by acclaimed architect Jeanne Gang, the St. Regis Chicago is more than just a building—it's a lifestyle. With 393 residences ranging from one-bedroom apartments to expansive five-bedroom penthouses, the tower provides residents with an array of five-star amenities. The entire 47th floor is dedicated to exclusive resident spaces, featuring a sky terrace with an outdoor pool, a private lounge and dining area, a demonstration kitchen, a golf lounge, a wine tasting room, a conference center, and a children's activity zone. Residents also benefit from seamless access to the adjacent St. Regis Hotel, which offers services like in-residence dining, housekeeping, and concierge support from Marriott's luxury brand.

The 79th-floor penthouse is a stunning example of modern elegance. Spanning approximately 6,300 square feet, this four-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bath residence boasts floor-to-ceiling windows that provide breathtaking 360-degree views of the lake, river, and cityscape. The interiors feature high-quality materials, including hardwood floors, natural stone accents, and designer wall coverings that complement premium fixtures from brands like Snaidero, Gaggenau, Thermador, and Kallista. The kitchen is equipped with Gaggenau appliances and quartz countertops, while the primary suite offers a spa-like bathroom complete with a walk-in shower, soaking tub, and heated floors. With 11-foot ceilings and spacious layouts, the penthouse is perfect for both grand entertaining and cozy retreats.

The sale, which closed in August 2025, was an off-market transaction, connecting directly with a qualified buyer without public listings. Initially priced at just under $9.8 million in May, the unit sold for approximately 25% below the asking price, reflecting current market trends where luxury properties are selling quickly despite softer pricing compared to previous peak years. This penthouse was part of a bulk investment portfolio associated with a Mexican denim magnate, adding an international dimension to the deal. While this transaction ranks among the tower's most expensive, it falls short of the record $20 million paid in 2022 for a 10,000-square-foot duplex on the 71st and 72nd floors by Mexican mining executive German Larrea.

In the broader context, Chicago's luxury condo market remains strong, with new developments like St. Regis attracting affluent buyers seeking exclusivity and convenience. Similar units in the building, such as one on the 73rd floor listed at $8.25 million and another on the 82nd at $10.5 million (now off the market), indicate steady demand. A 75th-floor penthouse sold for around $8.6 million for its 5,734 square feet, further emphasizing the premium placed on height and views. As interest rates stabilize, experts like agent Rafael Murillo suggest that now is an ideal time for buyers, with inventory in high-rises like this moving faster than in recent years.

This sale is more than just a transaction; it underscores Chicago's status as a global city. The St. Regis penthouses, starting from the 71st floor as "Sky 360" full-floor residences, represent the pinnacle of urban sophistication. For those dreaming of life above the clouds, the 79th-floor sale serves as both inspiration and a benchmark for future high-end transactions in the Midwest's tallest residential offerings.