1621 Chicago Avenue

Located on Chicago Avenue between Davis and Church, The Legacy transforms a one-story building and surface parking lot into a vibrant new presence in downtown Evanston. With PH as Design Architect, this 142,000-square-foot, 11-story mixed-use development will introduce 110 apartments, 7,000 square feet of retail space, and 41 parking spaces, creating a dynamic blend of urban living, convenience, and community. A carefully sculpted glazed volume rises above a distinctive brick podium, establishing a dialogue between Evanston’s architectural heritage and its evolving contemporary identity. The design celebrates transparency, light, and material craft, reinforcing Chicago Avenue’s role as one of the area’s most walkable and engaging corridors. Targeting LEED Gold certification, The Legacy incorporates a range of sustainable strategies, including bird-safe glazing as well as integrating eight affordable housing units, aligning environmental responsibility with social inclusivity.