Landmarks approves updated plan for 2618 N. Milwaukee

The Permit Review Committee has approved a revised redevelopment plan for the Grace Furniture building at 2618 N. Milwaukee. Located just north of Logan Square Park, the building sits within the Logan Square Boulevards District. Built in 1914 as a storage warehouse, the building’s prominent side elevation was demolished in 2017, with the steel frame left exposed and infilled with plywood.

Developers Bluestar Properties and Marc Realty secured approval to turn the structure into a boutique hotel back in 2020, and now are back to consider a proposal that would reoccupy the building with a gym. According to Block Club Chicago, Logan Square Athletic Club would be the anchor tenant, operating the gym under the Chicago Athletic Club brand.

With K2 Studio continuing as the architects for the revised scheme, the proposal will include a new brick facade with 28 window openings in seven bays that match the existing structural grid. Metal panels will act as spandrels with extra detailing as an added touch. A new stair and elevator core will be added at the back of the building with a partial sixth floor addition that will have rooftop access to an outdoor deck. The existing billboard structure will be used as a trellis.

The previous design called for new windows on the Milwaukee Ave facade to accommodate access to light for the hotel rooms. In the updated design, the existing smaller set of eight windows will be retained in their current configuration. The terracotta surround on the ground floor and the terracotta border on the entire facade will be restored.

With approval from the Permit Review Committee, the development can move forward with securing local approvals within the 35th Ward before beginning construction. Permits for construction have not been filed or issued and a timeline for construction is currently unknown.