The renovation of a vacant Lakeview neighborhood Department Store into a mixed use development provides 80 loft dwellings ranging from 875 to 1,800 sf. The seven story Tower Lofts, bounded by Lincoln, Belmont, Ashland and School Street, is a ‘First Chicago School’ structure that had been unsympathetically remodeled during its tenure as Wieboldt’s north side department store.

Totaling 120,000 sf of residential area, the project focused on returning the building’s exterior to the original clear structural expression, including meticulous replication of numerous ornamental features and details. Corrugated metal siding was stripped from the facade and replaced with new windows and projecting steel balconies. Sandblasted concrete and masonry interior structure provides a contrasting framework for new construction, complementing the original character of the building.

Individual dwelling units contain a Kitchen and Bathroom core positioned to promote an open loft environment. Enclosed parking is located in the Basement, while the 34,000 sf First Floor is occupied by a single commercial tenant.