Illinois

By Trina Sandschafer, AIA, Project Management Advisors Adaptation and reinvention are core parts of what makes American cities great, and Chicago is a prime example. Whether rebuilding, reimagining space for modern usage or creating new neighborhoods from formerly empty lots, the city has become known for its unique ability to bring new energy and life to formerly underutilized areas. Chicago knows how to reimagine the built environment and is leading the way with several transformative development strategies.  Adaptive reuse: A well-tested Chicago tactic Chicago’s long history of adaptive reuse began with the pioneering residential loft developers. In the wake of nationwide manufacturing declines, these enterprising developers saw opportunity in the city’s largely vacant warehouses and manufacturing buildings. The success of these early loft conversions encouraged further reimagining of Chicago’s aging industrial and office stock into condominiums, apartments, offices, entertainment venues and hospitality spaces, which continue to this day.  Now, adaptive reuse strategies are helping to increase the supply of housing and restore economic viability to communities dealing with the lingering impact of the pandemic on local businesses. Converting legacy structures to new and better uses is more environmentally sustainable and can be more cost-effective than demolishing older buildings and starting …