Addition by subtraction is underway on the Leon Hotel at 2701 North Clark Street in Lincoln Park, as selective demolition takes place ahead of the renovation and expansion of the former Single Room Occupancy building. The building, located on the northeast corner of Clark Street and West Drummond Place, has been gutted, with clear skies showing through the top of the building, and windows have been removed.

Lots of clear blue sky showing through the window openings on the south façade. Photo by Daniel Schell

The west façade. Photo by Daniel Schell

Photo by Daniel Schell

Exposed beams inside. Photo by Daniel Schell
Contemporary Concepts will add a two-story addition to the three original levels, converting the old SRO into 25 dwelling units ranging from studios to two-bedroom apartments. There will be retail and restaurant space on the first floor and in the basement level, with a roof deck providing outdoor space atop the eventual fifth floor. Studio Dwell drew up the plans for the overhaul. The permit to perform the work was issued in January with a reported cost of $4 million. A permit to install a passenger elevator came through on March 18.

Photo by Daniel Schell

Photo by Daniel Schell

Top-floor demolition. Photo by Daniel Schell

Photo by Daniel Schell
Just across street, work continues on The Maven, a seven-story, 84-unit residential building. Windows have been installed around the entre exterior of the ParkFowler + design, and masonry work appears to be at least three-quarters of the way to completion.
The Moyer Properties development will include studios, one-bedroom units, one-bedroom + den units, and two-bedroom residences. There are to be 52 parking spaces, with some located on the first floor and some outdoors. Residential amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness center, tenant lounge, and secure bicycle parking.

The Maven photobombs work atop the Leon Hotel in Lincoln Park. Photo by Daniel Schell

The south façade. Photo by Daniel Schell

Brickwork on the north façade. Photo by Daniel Schell

Looking southwest from North Lehmann Court. Photo by Daniel Schell
The Maven is expected to open this spring for residents to begin moving in to their units. There has been no announced opening date for the Leon Hotel.
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What year was the Leon Hotel built Was it always a hotel?
Mid-1910s. It does appear to have been SRO use for its entire existence.