Danish Home of Chicago expansion breaks ground

The Danish Home of Chicago and The Danish Home Foundation recently broke ground on a new addition to their senior living community. The groundbreaking was attended by over 100 donors, residents, and dignitaries, including Ambassador Stig Paolo Piras, the Deputy Chief of Mission for the Embassy of Denmark in Washington D.C., and Consul General Jesper Koks Andersen from the Consulate General of Denmark in Chicago.  

“This new addition means a tremendous amount to many, many people: our current residents, our many Danish supporters here and across the country, our neighbors, and those who will benefit from our new spaces once we open our new addition,” said Peter Orum, Capital Campaign and The Danish Home Foundation Chairman. 

Ambassador Stig Piras from the Embassy of Denmark in Washington D.C. commented, “Today we are not only laying the foundation for bricks and mortar. We’re also strengthening the ties that have bound Denmark and Chicago for many decades.  

Designed by HED, the $13.5 million addition comprises five independent living one-bedroom apartments and nine additional private healthcare suites.  The dining room will be expanded and will showcase floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking magnificent gardens. The kitchen will be upgraded with modern appliances, additional preparation areas, and storage as they fundraise towards the next phase. A new bistro space will be created to encourage casual gathering and entertainment. Also, new gardens and walking paths will be added for residents to enjoy the outdoors. The community has also spruced up the living room, gathering room, and hallways.   

This expansion is the fourth since the community was founded in 1891 by 12 Danish women who wanted to ensure that no one from the homeland who was living in the Chicago area would ever have to worry about growing old and being alone. This addition is made possible by the generosity of many groups and people who have generously donated over $8.7 million in cash, pledges, and an additional $3.3 million in bequests.

With Berglund Construction serving as the general contractor, construction is expected to be completed in the Spring of 2025.