It's always encouraging to see vacant land bite the dust for new infill development. And in Bronzeville's Oakland community, an overgrown lot at 920 E. 43rd Street (also known as Muddy Waters Drive around those parts) is about to be replaced by a new four-story mixed-use building.
Developed by D.O.M. Properties Investment, the plan consists of 3,800 square feet of street-level commercial space topped by 33 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments. The project, which was designed by Pro-Plan Architects, also includes parking spread across a ground-floor garage and a surface lot.
The vacant lot at 920 E. 43rd Street.Google Street View
This project is what is commonly called an "as of right" development, meaning it doesn't require any kind of zoning change or financial support from the city. These types of developments often materialize out of public view, but the developer behind 920 E. 43rd Street conducted a courtesy presentation for residents at a virtual meeting on Thursday hosted by Ald. Sophia King.
The four-story structure is close to breaking ground, according to developer Marcin Orpik of D.O.M. Properties Investment. "Everything is approved," said Orpik. "We are just waiting on [the final] paperwork."
The developer's website describes the project as "brimming with expensive finishes and contemporary convenience" that "will honor the legacy of DOM’s high style design and solid craftsmanship."
The same development and architect recently broke ground on a similar "as of right" project a quarter-mile away at 4137-4159 S. Cottage Grove. Also replacing a vacant lot, the four-story evelopment includes 6,000 square feet of retail space, 48 apartments, and parking for 50 cars.
