Built in 1893, the 17-story building is a pioneering Chicago skyscraper of skeletal construction with a supported masonry enclosure and floors resting on spread footings. It was designed by Holabird & Roche over a single weekend charette with the Monadnock Annex, Marquette and Chaplain Buildings. When the renovation started, the building had a 60% vacancy rate, 4 of six elevators non-operational, terra cotta facade condition problems, 653 non-functional monumental wood windows, a failed roof and one open stairwell for the only interior fire exit.
The 198ksf renovation has 137 dwellings with ground level retail. A Penthouse facility with terrace were added and compliment the 2nd floor restored banking offices, now used for administration and gathering space. Two fire escapes were removed from the east facade. A second interior enclosed stair from Basement to Roof was added. Other life safety improvements include a fire alarm and sprinkler system, diesel emergency generator, and emergency lighting and voice communication systems. Historic corridor windows and glass doors were upgraded with a fire rated overlay to separate the dwellings and stairs from the corridor. Elevators were repaired using original bronze and iron grilles.
Chicago Landmark Building
National Register of Historic Places