This project involved the renovation of a 14,000 SF building for CircEsteem—a non-profit dedicated to uniting youth of all backgrounds and identities by building self-esteem and mutual respect through circus arts. Originally constructed in 1914, the building was originally known as the Lakeside Theater and is included in Chicago’s Uptown Square Historic District. The work addressed long-deferred maintenance and included upgrades to support the organization’s programming needs. Challenges included a tight site, the absence of any existing drawings, and limited opportunities for upfront investigation due to the building’s active use and its historically protected exterior.
The existing building features load-bearing masonry walls, with wood floor construction in the office area and a concrete girder and clay tile roof system over the rear theater. The renovation included removal of portions of wall and the addition of steel columns, the addition of a modern elevator, and removal of portions of the second floor in the front office area to create a large two-story training area and new storefront.