Imagine a bustling neighborhood in Chicago’s Lincoln Park, just a stone’s throw from the vibrant North Avenue shopping corridor, where a sprawling vacant lot is about to transform into a modern residential hub. But here’s where it gets controversial: as the area rapidly densifies, not everyone is thrilled about the changes. Plans for a new residential building at 1728 North Clybourn Avenue have been unveiled, and they’re sparking conversations about urban growth, design, and community needs. Led by Contemporary Concepts Inc. and designed by Eckenhoff Saunders, this project aims to breathe new life into the space—but is it the right fit for the neighborhood? Let’s dive in.
The 200-foot-long site will be dominated by a five-story building, rising 60 feet tall. To avoid the monotony of a long, linear structure, the design team has cleverly divided the building into three distinct sections, each with its own brick color and window style. And this is the part most people miss: the ground floor won’t feature retail spaces, which is unusual for such a prime location. Instead, it will house a lobby, a coworking space, and terraces for lower-level units, along with a fitness room and 18 parking spots tucked away in the rear alley. Is this a missed opportunity for street-level commerce, or a smart move to prioritize resident amenities? Let us know what you think in the comments.
Inside, the building will offer 59 residential units, ranging from cozy 460-square-foot studios to spacious 1,500-square-foot three-bedrooms. The mix includes 10 studios, three one-bedrooms, 37 two-bedrooms, and five three-bedrooms, with 12 units designated as affordable housing—a nod to the city’s ongoing affordability challenges. Residents will also enjoy shared perks like a rooftop lounge and outdoor terrace, perfect for soaking in those Chicago skyline views.
Before construction can begin, the project must navigate the standard approval process. If all goes smoothly, the team hopes to break ground next spring and deliver the units by spring 2027. But here’s the question: as Lincoln Park continues to evolve, how do we balance growth with the character of the neighborhood? Does this project strike the right chord, or is it a step too far? Share your thoughts below—we’d love to hear your take on this transformative development.
