2136-50 W North Avenue — norsman architects, ltd.
The project includes the adaptive re-use of Association House, an existing 100-year old structure in Chicago's landmarked Wicker Park district and the development of seven adjacent lots with new construction mixed-use buildings.
Situated a block from Wicker Park's primary commercial intersection, the site has strong commercial value as well as strong residential potential. To respect the historic integrity of Association House and the neighborhood, a voluntary front yard zoning setback was created to preserve the historic site line of the existing building and to provide public green space.
An interpretation of the hip roof was employed to soften the presence of a fourth floor, reducing the street wall effect and to further assimilate with the neighborhood.
Historic materials such as zinc coated copper and red brick are used in a decidedly modern approach to be contextual without replicating the surroundings.
NA saw the construction of these three new buildings as an opportunity for a collective experience. To add vitality to each building and create a distinctive whole, IIT Architecture Professor, Randy Kober and Sarah Dunn and Martin Felsen of Urban Lab were invited to serve as design architects for the 3-unit and 6-unit building.