Plans have been revealed for the residential conversion of the existing commercial building at 1500 N Halsted Street in the Near North Side. Located at the northwest corner of Halsted and West Blackhawk Street, the project is just steps away from other proposals at 1333 N Kingsbury Street and 1565 N Clybourn Avenue.
Site context of 1500 N Halsted Street via Newcastle
The four-story building currently houses an Ethan Allen furniture store on the ground floor, with vacant commercial space occupying the upper levels. The building’s owner, Newcastle Investors, is spearheading the effort to convert the upper three floors, with local firm SPACE Architects + Planners handling the design.
Ground floor plan of 1500 N Halsted Street by SPACE Architects + Planners
Floor plan of 1500 N Halsted Street by SPACE Architects + Planners
It’s not yet clear whether Ethan Allen will remain in the building long-term. However, future residents will have access to a small 15-space parking lot, currently shared with the neighboring La-Z-Boy store. The upper floors will be transformed into 31 residential units, featuring a mix of junior one-bedroom, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom layouts. Six of the units will be designated as affordable housing.
Elevation of 1500 N Halsted Street by SPACE Architects + Planners
Elevation of 1500 N Halsted Street by SPACE Architects + Planners
The 116-year-old structure will retain its existing façade, with only minor repairs planned. Late last week, Newcastle Investors submitted a zoning application for the redevelopment. The project must still receive full approval from City Council before moving forward. A budget and timeline for the conversion have not yet been announced.
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
I like this one, good reuse of the “turn of the last century” building.
Thumbs up always for adaptive reuse over replacement.
Love it. This area is finally becoming more of a true neighborhood.
Great idea – adaptive reuse instead of a cookie cutter building. Big thanks to the developers.