The adaptive reuse process of “The Jewel Laundry” Building located at 1730 W. Greenleaf Avenue has been in motion since 2017. The plans required an upzoning request. Preservation Chicago had been in early conversations with key decision-makers and helped polish this development. We supported the adaptive reuse proposal and spoke on its behalf at a community meeting on June 14, 2017 at the Ethiopian Community Center of Chicago.
The “Jewel Laundry” Building is classified as orange-rated by the Chicago Historic Resources Survey which highlights the building’s “Prairie and Sullivanesque” ornamentation and detailing. Preservation Chicago worked with developer, Dave Gassman, and alderman’s office to help shape an adaptive reuse plan that embraced the authenticity and beauty of the historic building while allowing the development program to be accomplished. The historic façade was restored as part of the redevelopment plan. A new two-story addition was be added to the top of the building with a set-back behind the existing historic façade.
This white terra cotta commercial building was the long-time location of Maya Romanoff Corporation wallpaper and textiles plant until 2008 when it became the Ethiopian Community Center of Chicago. The historic building was designed by Aroner & Somers and dates to circa 1915.
Additional Reading
Historic Rogers Park building to be preserved and expanded into apartments, Jay Koziarz, Curbed Chicago, 11/22/17
Developer seeks new apartments in historic Rogers Park buildings, AJ LaTrace, Curbed Chicago, 6/8/17