The Commission on Chicago Landmarks has approved a new residential development 4543 S Ellis Avenue in North Kenwood. Located on an unusually wide Chicago lot within a row of historical stone homes north of E 46th Street, the small project is being developed by Exbud LLC and designed by AP Architects. Due to being within the North Kenwood Historic District, the project needed to take into consideration its surroundings and fit in within the site context.
Context view of 4543 S Ellis Avenue by AP Architects
The North Kenwood Historic District was designated a historical area in 1993 although by then it had seen a long history marked by decline in the more recent years. Reaching its initial peak in the 1920’s with over 27,000 residents, by the 1990 census the population had declined to just over 5,000. Over the years the area along with neighboring Kenwood saw mansions built for many Chicago greats including Louis Sullivan, John Shedd, and Max Adler, although most no longer exist, their architectural impact remains today.
Rendering of 4543 S Ellis Avenue by AP Architects
Fully filling in the 35 foot by 171 foot lot, the new three-story building will deliver six residential units with a basement storage space. Consisting of two-bedroom apartments with large living spaces fronting N Ellis Avenue, a new rear garage with six spots and a roof deck would also be available for future residents. The new design will directly relate to the surrounding historical homes and mimic their massing and height at 47 feet tall, bay window turrets and a central arched entryway clad in rock-face precast concrete will tie the home with its neighbors.
Rendering of front entry of 4543 S Ellis Avenue by AP Architects
Once completed, tenants will have access to CTA bus Route 47 via a three-minute walk and Route 43 via a six-minute walk as well as to Gwendolyn Brooks Park directly behind the property. Praised by the commission, the project won approval and will now move on to further permitting before beginning construction. Though no timeline was established, the development shows a move in the right direction for the area.
Subscribe to YIMBY’s daily e-mail
Follow YIMBYgram for real-time photo updates
Like YIMBY on Facebook
Follow YIMBY’s Twitter for the latest in YIMBYnews
A rare post I think everyone can be happy about
This could be a terrific example of how to build in Chicago’s neighborhoods. Hopefully the materials and details will hold up to the intentions. Thoughtful developer!!!
Its going to be extremely expensive to recreate that rough hewn limestone look but good luck, hope they can do it without breaking the bank and cheeping out.