Where Are Seven Endangered Buildings from Preservation Chicago’s First List?

Preservation Chicago has tracked more than 100 historic sites since 2002 that face demolition or serious neglect. The group uses advocacy, policy tools, and public outcry to push for landmark designation or sensitive reuse.

The article highlights a range of outcomes, from demolished treasures to restored landmarks and adaptive reuse. This shows both the fragility and resilience of Chicago’s architectural heritage.

Preservation Chicago: tracking risk and seeking outcomes

Across decades, the organization has cataloged endangered sites and publicized threats. It has mobilized communities to defend historic fabric.

The examples below show how policy measures, community action, and redevelopment can steer projects toward preservation.

300 N. Franklin St.: The Merc, the Butter and Egg Building, and a 90-day warning

The 1927 Beaux-Arts building at 300 N. Franklin St., known as the Merc or the “Butter and Egg Building,” became a flashpoint for preservation advocates when it was demolished in 2003 despite protests.

The loss spurred the adoption of a 90-day warning ordinance for threatened structures. This policy tool gives communities time to mobilize and consider alternatives before demolition proceeds.

Cook County Hospital: From vacancy to a $1 billion redevelopment

A Classic Revival landmark at 1825 W. Harrison St., the hospital inspired the TV show ER and housed the nation’s first blood bank.

After sitting vacant post-2002, it was integrated into a major redevelopment project totaling about $1 billion. The 2020 reopening brought hotels, medical offices, and diverse uses.

Lower River North: The risk of non-designation for an era of Victorian charm

Lower River North comprises Victorian commercial buildings from the 1870s through the 1930s.

Despite advocacy and nominations, it has not achieved a formal landmark district designation. This leaves significant streetscapes vulnerable without formal protection.

Metropolitan Church: A civil rights landmark secured in 2007

Metropolitan Church at 4100 S. King Drive sits at the heart of Black history and civil rights organizing.

After threats of demolition, it achieved Chicago landmark status in 2007. Recognition can shield sites of cultural memory from redevelopment pressures.

New Life Building: From LeBaron Jenney design to Gray Hotel

The late-1890s New Life Building at 122 W. Monroe and 39 S. LaSalle, a Classical Revival high-rise by William LeBaron Jenney, was spared demolition and repurposed as the Gray Hotel after a $106 million adaptive reuse project.

This transformation shows how historic office towers can be revived as modern hospitality spaces while preserving architectural integrity.

St. Boniface: From church to multifamily housing

St. Boniface at 1358 W. Chestnut St., a Romanesque Revival church by Henry J. Schlacks that survived the Great Chicago Fire, faced multiple demolition attempts.

It was redeveloped into 42 housing units, completed in phases by June 2025. The project shows how sacred spaces can be reimagined for contemporary needs without erasing their history.

630 W. Lake St.: The Haymarket survivor today houses Kumiko

The 1882 Italianate building at 630 W. Lake St. is the last survivor from the 1886 Haymarket demonstration.

It now houses Kumiko, a Japanese American bar that earned Outstanding Bar at the 2025 James Beard Awards. This is a case where historic fabric anchors a modern, vibrant urban venue.

Practical takeaways for architecture and engineering professionals

• Leverage landmark designation to create protections against demolition or inappropriate alterations.
• Embrace adaptive reuse to preserve historic fabric while delivering contemporary value, as shown by the New Life Building and Cook County Hospital.
• Use policy levers strategically—like 90-day warning ordinances—to allow time for community input and redevelopment options.
• Engage communities and stakeholders to sustain momentum for preservation campaigns, especially when districts lack formal designation.
• Document and publicize risk to keep sites on the radar of planners, developers, and policymakers, ensuring architectural heritage remains central to urban growth.

Looking ahead: preserving Chicago’s architectural memory

The history of these sites shows that preservation is not a single moment. It is an ongoing process involving design, policy, and public will.

Through documentation, redevelopment, and community advocacy, Chicago can honor its architectural legacy. This approach allows the city to meet modern needs while respecting its past.

 
Here is the source article for this story: What ever happened to the 7 buildings on Preservation Chicago’s 1st Endangered Buildings list?