Picture this. You’re standing before the majestic Lawson House Apartments a 24-story Art Deco masterpiece. Its elegant lines speak of a bygone era. This isn’t just a building. It’s a living testament to Chicago’s rich history.
Lawson House Apartments originally opened in 1931. It was then the Victor F Lawson House YMCA. It was a gift from newspaper magnate Victor Lawson. He was a generous philanthropist. He gave a substantial donation to the YMCA before his death in 1925. The architects Perkins Chatten & Hammond designed this architectural gem. They used the Art Deco style so popular in the 1930s.
The building played a vital role during the Great Depression. It provided affordable housing and crucial community services. The YMCA offered family programs. These were groundbreaking for their time. Other cities later copied these successful models. After World War II the building became the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago’s headquarters.
But the story doesn’t end there. In 2014 the Lawson House was sold. It was sold to Holsten Real Estate Development Corp for the symbolic price of one dollar. This sale came with a crucial condition. Affordable housing must continue on this site for at least 50 years. This commitment to providing affordable housing for the community is remarkable. It’s a promise kept across decades.
Today Lawson House stands proudly. It stands as a symbol of resilience. It’s a reminder of the importance of affordable housing. The building has undergone a massive renovation. It now offers 406 apartments for low-income residents. Amenities include a rooftop terrace a gym and on-site social services. The renovation cost 122 million dollars. It has preserved many historical elements. A small chapel with stained-glass windows remains on the third floor. This impressive building continues its mission. It continues to serve the Chicago community just as it did nearly a century ago. It’s a place where history and progress gracefully intertwine.