New windows installed for 360 Chicago redevelopment of former John Hancock building

CHICAGO (WLS) -- 360 Chicago had new windows installed on Wednesday as it redevelops the top floors of the former John Hancock building.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

Each windowpane, which is original to the building, took about an hour to replace, and they have over 200.

Last year it was announced the Signature Room restaurant on the 95th floor was closing to expand the 94th floor and create Chicago's only two-story observation deck.

The new windows are 5 feet by 8 feet, weighing about 350 pounds.

Christopher Glass & Aluminum, a local Chicago company, is leading the replacement.

The windows are double-pane, low-iron glass, which will ultimately improve temperature control, energy efficiency, and provide a clearer view to the outside.

"The original glass let in less than half of the natural light that you're now seeing and had much more internal reflection. The new glass significantly increases the brightness while also reducing the glare, so that our guests will experience Chicago skyline in a much more vivid way," Managing Director at 360 Chicago Nichole Benolken said.

SEE ALSO | 360 Chicago unveils redevelopment plans for tops floors of former John Hancock building

"The whole point of this experience and coming up and enjoying yourself with your family friends was to take pictures, right, to enjoy the space, whether it's daytime, nighttime, and with this glass, you're able to meet that goal," Christopher Glass & Aluminum Director of Sales said.

The new observation deck is expected to be open to customers by mid-2027.