A groundbreaking has been held for the mixed-use renovation of the old Covent Hotel at 2653 N Clark Street in Lincoln Park. Located on the corner with W Drummond Place, the project is part of a larger proposal which will bring a new market rate apartment building, however the existing rooming motel will be converted to affordable units. This is being led by the NHP Foundation and Drummond Development with local firm Weese Langley Weese Architects working on its design.
Current view of The Covent via Google Maps
The three-story Classical Revival style building was erected in 1915 as a men’s motel and has remained as such since. But in 2016 the building fell into the hands of the NHP foundation after its past owner vied for it to be turned into affordable housing, it took them several years to come up with the plan which has now begun work. With 20 residents at the time of its closure, the developer had to have a relocation plan and specialist to find a place for them to live while the structure is being rehabbed, in return they will receive priority return to when work is completed.
Floor plan of 2653 N Clark Street by Weese Langley Weese and Brininstool+Lynch
The work being executed will see its current 64 single occupancy rooms converted into 30 semi-furnished studios with private kitchens and restrooms across the top two floors. The eight commercial spaces on the ground floor will be merged into four larger spots, and the structure will receive new doors, windows, elevators, as well as facade repairs. Once finished, the Chicago Housing Authority will offer 30 project-based vouchers for all tenants allowing them to pay 30 percent of their income for rent according to Block Club.
Rendering of restored Covent Hotel and new mixed-use project by Weese Langley Weese and Brininstool + Lynch
The $21 million project is being partially funded by the second phase of construction next door, an 84-unit development designed by Brininstool + Lynch. It will only have two affordable units and paying a lump sum in exchange for the rest. Although a construction date has not been announced for that, the work on the Covent Hotel is expected to take 12 months to build out with a potential reopening in the fourth quarter of 2023, just slightly later than previously expected.
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When this project is completed, I would like to put my bid in for a one bedroom apartment.