Demolition of a greystone multi-unit residence at 707 West Briar Place in Lake View has wrapped, yielding the way to foundation work for a new four-story with basement condominium development. Developed and built by Ronan Construction, the building will hold six condos, topped by a roof deck. There will not be a detached garage, but six outdoor parking spaces will be available to condo owners. Michael Cox & Associates is the architect listed on the new construction permit, issued January 26 of this year.
The foundation has been dug at 707 West Briar Place in Lake View. Photo by Daniel Schell
Photo by Daniel Schell
Photo by Daniel Schell
Real estate sites show the 1890s-era building last sold in 2020 for $1.85 million. Demolition began from the rear of the building, essentially “scooping out” in the insides, giving the appearance that perhaps the front façade might be saved and repurposed. Alas, that was not the intention; it just took demolition contractor Bridges Excavating some time to work their way to the front. A demolition permit for the property was issued June 6 of this year; we were there for a look at progress on July 12.
Demo work, July 12, 2024. Photo by Daniel Schell
Photo by Daniel Schell
Photo by Daniel Schell
Excavator through the front door. Photo by Daniel Schell
Photo by Daniel Schell
Upon its completion, residents of 707 West Briar Place will have only a one-block walk to catch a show by Blue Man Group. CTA Routes 8 and 22 buses stop just a bit farther at Halsted and Clark. One block north is access to Routes 77, 151, and 156 on Belmont Avenue. The nearest elevated trains are at the Belmont Red/Brown/Purple Line platform a little less than half a mile west.
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What. A. Waste. Another beautiful and solid structure like that gone forever. Could have and should have been gutted and rebuilt.
Totally sad. This was my family building from the 1940’s. My mom and I moved in 1976 and she lived there until passing away in 2010. The facade of the building was grandiose and impressive for a building built in the late late 1800’s. Since it sold in 2021 I haven’t been able to bright myself to make a trip down Briar Place to see the progress. Now I know why!! WTF?
Sadness.
Nothing lasts forever….
pull it
Shame that developemnet didn’t included saving the facade.