Project Information
Partnering with our client, Here to Stay CLT, we recently finished renovating an 1890s Workers Cottage in Logan Square. An actual “good bones” building, Orange-Rated by the Chicago Historic Resources Survey, we knew the right approach to renovating the cottage was to have the lightest touch possible, allowing the layers of history – original wood trim and floor, light fixtures from the 1920s switch to electric light, the lived history of organizing in Dr. Anne Scheetz’ home – to shine.
Along with General Contractor Chicago Metropolitan Construction, our focus was on updating building systems, reconfiguring the cottage’s layout for a new code-compliant staircase, new kitchen and bathroom, and an overall refresh of the building. These moves allow the Workers Cottage to continue to serve as affordable housing in a gentrified neighborhood while providing increased performance and livability for the following years of the cottage’s 100-plus-year life.
On the exterior, new windows were installed to improve building performance. A new front stair and landing were added. Dr. Scheetz’ donated her home to our client to preserve affordable housing in Logan Square, and we were thrilled to be able to renovate the workers cottage and help with the mission of both Dr. Scheetz and Here to Stay – preserving history in the neighborhood while allowing for additional affordable homeownership opportunities.
Details
- Clients: Here to Stay Community Land Trust
- General Contractor: Chicago Metropolitan Construction
- Size: Renovation, 1,800 SF
- Team: Josh Mings, Jason Pion
