The Chicago Plan Commission has approved the redevelopment of the historic Up Top Building within historic Altgeld Gardens. Located at 13100 South Ellis Avenue, the curved one-story building long served as the commercial hub of the surrounding community prior to falling into disrepair after years of disinvestment in the area.
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, local nonprofit By The Hand Club For Kids is set to take over the structure, bringing new life to the last vacant building within the larger Altgeld Gardens property. The building itself is made up of two separate structures connected by a single swooping, overhanging roof, creating a small passthrough that has become a memorial for victims of gun violence.
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
Working with Present Future Architects, the plans call for the restoration of both structures, the reopening of its famed storefront windows, enclosing the passthrough as a new lobby with the memorial preserved, and the construction of a new double-height addition for a full-size gym. The after-school center will serve kids in grades K–12.
Rendering of By The Hand Club For Kids by Present Future Architects
Rendering of By The Hand Club For Kids by Present Future Architects
The 9,800-square-foot center will include nine classrooms, two computer labs, a multi-purpose room, a reading room, a high-school kids’ lounge, a kitchen, offices, and more. The gym addition will be clad in brick set to complement the existing building, accented with translucent panels. Users will also have access to a renovated 70-space parking lot in the rear.
Elevations of By The Hand Club For Kids by Present Future Architects
Since our last coverage just over a week ago, we now know the development will cost $24.3 million to complete. Once funding is secured, the team hopes to break ground later this year and begin opening in the fall of 2027.
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