Demolition has begun on the former discount furniture store at 1950 West Lawrence Avenue in Ravenswood. The back wall of the structure has been broken through, allowing a clear view from the alley all the way the the front windows of the store’s showroom. Not much progress has been made, but enough to get a small excavator through the back of the building and keep the alley clear.
Some new shake ups and openings have been announced for retail stores around Michigan Avenue, Rush Street, and Oak Street within the Near North Side. Two very different stories have been forming over the years between the iconic shopping drag and the boutique anchored side streets, both of which are heating up post-pandemic.
Multiple new retail experiences have been announced along Michigan Avenue as the strip sees an uptick in occupancy from its pandemic lows. Located across the famed shopping street, the new spots both replace vacant spaces and some soon-to-be closed stores. This comes as some major flagships like H&M relocate from their current home as well.
Initial details have been revealed for the commercial redevelopment of 212 E Ontario Street in Streeterville. Located just over a block east from N Michigan Avenue, the project will restore and renovate the existing historical mansion. Efforts are being led by Chicago-based jewelry brand Local Eclectic who will move into the former home and open their first store front.
Renderings have been revealed for the renovation of the famed Castaways Beach Club at 1603 N DuSable Lake Shore Drive on North Avenue Beach. Sitting right on the beach itself, the boat-shaped club has been a local staple for many years. The project is being led by the club’s owner Stefani Restaurant Group.
