The focused advocacy effort by neighborhood partner Logan Square Preservation and Preservation Chicago (including a petition drive which received over 500 signatures) resulted in the partial preservation of the three-story Weyland Building at 1970 N. Milwaukee Avenue by architect John Ahlschlager (better known for the Logan Theatre and Schulze Bakery). The façade’s beautifully-crafted decorative classical limestone ornament and bronze cornice will be integrated into a much larger residential development on the adjacent parcel.
Full building preservation was desired, but structural issues contributed to the final agreement to preserve only the Milwaukee Ave facade and six feet of the common brick return walls. Additional concessions include a full three-story high, six foot deep reveal to visually separate the historic façade from the new building. The new structure planned to be built on above and behind the historic building will be set back 15 feet to minimize visibility from Milwaukee Avenue. Out of deference to the historic Weyland Building, the two-story base of the new building will be limestone and the upper stories will be clad in brick.
Preservation Chicago wishes to recognize 1st Ward Alderman Joe Moreno for his support and leadership.
The TOD-Transit Oriented Development ordinance has relaxed certain zoning requirements for development in close proximity to transit stations. The result has been increased development pressure on historic buildings within these areas. Preservation Chicago supports reinvestment in our neighborhoods and hopes that the preservation of historic fabric will become a new standard and norm for future TOD projects.
Suggested Reading
Historic Weyland Building to be Part of Clayco Multifamily Development, Bisnow 11/9/16
Developer Incorporates Historic Building Into Logan Square Development, DNAinfo, 11/8/16