Plans and renderings have been revealed for the redevelopment of the historic Up Top Building at 13100 South Ellis Avenue within Altgeld Gardens. Located on the northeastern corner of the large housing complex and next to the neighborhood’s public library branch, the structure has sat vacant and deteriorating for years, waiting for a new life.
Historic image of Up Top building via Sun Times
Existing conditions of Up Top Building via DPD
The now 80-year-old curved structure consists of two buildings connected by a large overhanging roof and pass-through, designed by architecture firm Keck & Keck, which worked on the Century of Progress International Exposition. Originally built as a commercial center, it is better known for the community-led memorial to victims of gun violence within the pass-through.
Rendering of By The Hand Club For Kids by Present Future Architects
Rendering of By The Hand Club For Kids by Present Future Architects
Now, nonprofit By The Hand Club For Kids is working to revive the structure as an after-school center for kids in K–12 as it prepares to present its plans to the Plan Commission later this week. Design efforts are being led by Present Future Architects and call for a full renovation of the structure, reopening the historic windows, enclosing the pass-through, and adding a new gym.
Rendering of By The Hand Club For Kids by Present Future Architects
Floor plans of By The Hand Club For Kids by Present Future Architects
The 9,800 square feet of space will include nine classrooms, two computer labs, a multi-purpose room, reading room, large lounge for high schoolers, kitchen, admin offices, and a gym with a full-size basketball court. This will center around a new lobby within the former pass-through that will preserve the community memorial.
Rendering of By The Hand Club For Kids by Present Future Architects
Elevations of By The Hand Club For Kids by Present Future Architects
The gym structure will be clad in red brick similar to the existing building, featuring large translucent panels to allow light into the space. The project will also fix up the 70-space parking lot in the rear of the building and the surrounding grounds. The project will now need approval and has already secured the land and building, with an opening expected in three to four years.
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This is going to be a great amenity a couple of blocks from the new Red Line terminus.
This would be a fun on to work on. I’m a bit jealous! Looking forward to seeing this one get done, the building deserves a second life.