Sandwiched between Chicago's CTA Elevated Brown Line and the Metra, this former manufacturing building was converted into a residence for a family of four. From the exterior, the building retains its original appearance except for the sculpted roof of the second story family room. Although new windows were installed throughout, the original openings on the building’s north and east elevations were also retained. Only the new front entry gives any indication that the former commercial wood shop is now used for a different function.
The program for the house is organized around a private internal courtyard, which provides a focal point and allows natural light and air to reach every room. Massive sliding doors open to the courtyard to enhance indoor/outdoor connectivity. This model shows how we engineered a uniquely sculpted roof above the second-floor family room.
Living, eating, and kitchen spaces are located east of the courtyard, while bedrooms are to the west, creating a clear delineation of public and private functions.
Massive sliding doors to the courtyard open from the corners, creating greater access.
Salvaged wood beams were used as building material at strategic points throughout the house, including on the stairs. Polished concrete floors and exposed steel complement the exposed timber structure of the original building.
The original wood shop had been in operation since 1960, and was one of the last remaining industrial functions along the Ravenswood Industrial Corridor.
