en.Wedoany.com Reported - In Chicago's South Side Auburn Gresham neighborhood, two mixed-use buildings converted from vacant lots have been completed and are now operational, with all residential units leased. The project is part of Chicago's "Invest South/West" initiative, aimed at revitalizing commercial corridors that have long suffered from systemic underinvestment. Designed by Ross Barney Architects (RBA) and developed by Evergreen Housing, the project provides housing and commercial space for a community known for its historic bungalow-style homes.
The Auburn Gresham commercial corridor was originally a small historic commercial street that was demolished years ago. Six years ago, the city planned to build a 60-unit apartment building on a vacant lot at 79th Street, but due to the community's predominantly single-family homes, residents opposed the density created by increased rental housing. After the initial proposal faced resistance, Ross Barney Architects redesigned the community engagement process, bringing residents together through virtual and in-person sessions to shape the building plan. The team found that young people in the community could not stay in Auburn Gresham due to a lack of available housing units and amenities such as shopping and dining.
The design team collaborated with Evergreen Real Estate Group to acquire another lot half a block down from the original site, distributing the total number of units across two locations. The project on the original lot reduced the number of units from the initially proposed 60 to 28. The building stretches along 79th Street in two sections: the eastern end features a three-story unit wrapped in maroon and gray brick; the western end has an undulating three-story facade that winds above the ground-floor commercial space, with a recessed glass bridge connecting the two blocks, and a green space beneath the bridge providing a tranquil area.
On the second lot, a five-story L-shaped building with 30 units was constructed. Recessed sunflower-yellow balconies contrast with cream and gray cement board panels, creating a sense of depth. The building offers residents outdoor spaces, including a rooftop terrace and a laundry room with views of downtown Chicago.
All residential units have been fully leased, with most tenants being young people. The project ensures that the next generation can move out of their parents' homes and into a space where commerce is being revitalized. The developer is seeking retail tenants for the first lot, and a restaurant is planned for the ground floor of the second lot. Additionally, Ross Barney Architects is designing a new regional Metra station within walking distance, making it convenient for residents to travel to downtown.
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