The Palmolive
A Chicago landmark since 1929, The Palmolive Building at 159 E Walton is one of the city’s finest examples of Art Deco architecture. Originally the headquarters of the Colgate-Palmolive Company, the limestone-clad tower has been meticulously restored and reimagined as one of Streeterville’s most exclusive luxury condo buildings. Its striking setbacks, illuminated Lindbergh Beacon, and timeless design make it instantly recognizable on the skyline, while inside, residences combine classic elegance with modern refinement. For buyers searching for Palmolive condos for sale, this historic address delivers a rare blend of heritage and sophistication.
Beyond its architectural pedigree, The Palmolive holds a distinctive place in Chicago’s cultural history. In the 1960s, the tower became home to Hugh Hefner’s original Playboy Club, where the iconic brand helped define a new era of nightlife and entertainment. That chapter, paired with its origins as Colgate-Palmolive’s headquarters, gives the building a layered history that few addresses in Chicago can rival. Today, The Palmolive blends this storied past with modern luxury, making it one of the most fascinating Gold Coast residences to call home.
Palmolive condos offer a boutique collection of luxury residences, each thoughtfully designed to honor the building’s historic character while meeting the expectations of today’s buyers. Homes feature generous floor plans, high ceilings, and oversized windows that frame sweeping views of Lake Michigan, Oak Street Beach, and the city skyline. Many residences include custom millwork, marble finishes, and gas fireplaces, blending pre-war detail with contemporary comfort. For discerning buyers exploring Streeterville condos for sale, The Palmolive presents a one-of-a-kind opportunity.
Life at The Palmolive is defined by exclusivity and service, with amenities tailored for privacy, wellness, and convenience:
24-hour door staff, concierge, and on-site management
Valet parking and private garage access
Resident fitness center with modern equipment
Elegant clubroom and meeting spaces for entertaining
Full-service spa and wellness facilities
This combination of historic grandeur and white-glove service ensures Palmolive residents experience a lifestyle unmatched among Streeterville luxury condos.
The Palmolive’s location at Walton and Michigan places residents at the crossroads of Streeterville and the Gold Coast, two of Chicago’s most celebrated neighborhoods. World-class shopping on the Magnificent Mile is just steps away, while Oak Street boutiques and Rush Street dining are equally accessible. Nearby favorites include:
RL Restaurant – Classic American dining with a refined club atmosphere
Le Colonial – French-Vietnamese cuisine in an elegant townhouse setting
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse – Legendary Chicago steakhouse on Rush Street
Fig & Olive – Mediterranean flavors with a lively bar and patio
Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House – Fresh seafood and signature cocktails
Beyond dining, residents enjoy proximity to Oak Street Beach, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and cultural icons along Michigan Avenue. For buyers seeking luxury condos in Chicago’s Gold Coast, The Palmolive offers unrivaled access to both lifestyle and location.
For those seeking an address that embodies Chicago’s architectural heritage while delivering modern luxury and service, The Palmolive Building offers a lifestyle as enduring as its iconic design. If you’re exploring Palmolive condos for sale in Chicago, contact Mike Larson Real Estate to arrange a private tour and experience one of the city’s most timeless residences.
About
The Palmolive Building at 159 E Walton in Chicago’s Streeterville neighborhood is an architectural icon, offering luxury condos for sale with a blend of historic charm and modern elegance. Built in 1929 as the Colgate-Palmolive headquarters and famously home to Playboy Enterprises, this Art Deco gem is a symbol of sophistication along the Magnificent Mile. Converted into exclusive condominiums in 2006, The Palmolive remains a sought-after address in Chicago’s luxury real estate market.
Palmolive condos range from one-bedroom residences to an expansive 8,000-square-foot duplex penthouse on the 37th floor. Many units feature private terraces, while full-floor homes on levels 22 through 35 provide panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline, starting as low as the 14th floor.
Residents enjoy premier amenities, including 24-hour door staff, concierge services, and a full maintenance team. The Beacon Club offers a private library, lounge, wine storage, and entertainment spaces, while a state-of-the-art health club caters to wellness needs. The building is pet-friendly with no weight restrictions, and deeded parking is available in the on-site garage.
Located near Oak Street Beach, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and luxury boutiques like Hermès and Prada, The Palmolive offers an exceptional lifestyle. Dining options near The Palmolive include Fig & Olive, Somerset, Le Colonial, and Rosebud Steakhouse, all within a short walk, providing residents with a variety of fine dining experiences. For those looking to buy or sell condos in The Palmolive, I offer expert market analysis, exclusive listings, and personalized service backed by experience and local expertise.
Mike’s dedication towards his work is no surprise considering he holds a city record for fastest leased building.