Woodlawn, Rosenwald Historic Restoration and Renovation
Our restoration of the 15,000 sq. ft. historic Rosenwald mansion in Chicago’s Kenwood neighborhood is nearing completion after three years of construction. The mansion was originally designed in 1913 by the acclaimed architect Howard Van Doren Shaw. Shaw was prolific with his designs and had more than 200 residential and commercial projects built at the beginning of the 20th Century.
This 20-room mansion is beautifully situated on one of the largest residential lots in the city. Attentive efforts were placed on preserving the historic structure’s original architectural details. Restoration of the exterior focused on architectural limestone, masonry, copper and slate roofing, ornamental iron, and an ornate steel and glass entry canopy. The interior restoration concentrated on the original windows, hardware, millwork, limestone, marble, and plaster detailing. All the mechanical systems were updated with new HVAC, radiant heating, plumbing, electrical, lighting, low-volt, and security.
A new 1,000 sq. ft. addition to the back of the residence modernized the first floor with an expanded kitchen and family room, and new lower-level living space with spa and recreation rooms. A detached coach house was adapted into a three-car garage with a 1,200 sq. ft. guest apt. on the second floor. The property, nearly an acre in size, was originally designed by the famous Danish born landscape architect Jens Jensen. The restored formal gardens feature extensive flower beds, evergreens, fruit trees, hardscape, terraces and walkways. An inground pool, spa and outdoor kitchen were also newly constructed on the property.
The mansion was reengineered with the removal of loadbearing masonry walls in the basement, and new structural steel posts and beams were installed to maximize square footage. With the lower level adapted, the existing floor was removed and lowered by two feet; and an expansive window wall with walkout access to the rear terrace was added. The newly transformed 3,800 sq. ft. lower level was redesigned with a spa, hot and cold plunge, workout room, game room, wine cellar, bar and fireplace. The mansion was originally designed for Morris Rosenwald, a financier and men’s clothing merchant to the original Sears, Roebuck & Co. who was the brother of the famous philanthropist Julius Rosenwald.
Architect: BBA Architects
