INVEST SouthWest
Austin United Alliance
INVEST South/West represents a transformative vision for Chicago's underserved neighborhoods, and our team is excited to be at the forefront of this initiative. VDT has partnered with Katherine Darnstadt of Latent Design, a talented MBE/WBE architect, to build a robust team with deep roots in Chicago's South and West Sides. Our project focuses on a half-city block at the corner of Laramie and Chicago Avenue, one of 12 INVEST sites. This location includes the Laramie State Bank, one of the city's top five most endangered historic buildings.
Our design, which was the first INVEST site to be awarded and reviewed by the new Committee on Design of the Department of Planning and Development, centers on three core values: catalyze, socialize, and localize.
Location
Chicago, IL
Expertise
Architecture, Interior Design, Research, Master Planning, Sustainability
Select Press
Urbanize Chicago
Chicago YIMBY
Partners
Latent Design
Pivotal
Chicago Department of Planning + Development
To catalyze change, we're introducing a vibrant development that blends historic preservation with modern design. Adjacent to the restored Laramie State Bank, we're constructing a 75-unit affordable housing building. This mixed-income development will offer a range of unit types, serving a variety of households. The restored bank building will house a community development corporation, new retail spaces, and a branch bank, bringing the historic structure back to life and providing essential financial services to residents.
To socialize, we're creating spaces that foster community interaction. Our design includes shared amenities such as a rooftop terrace and fitness center as well as a courtyard between the bank building and the housing complex that will include a community plaza, gardens, and several public art installations.
To localize, we're ensuring that the project's benefits remain within the community. We're partnering with local businesses for retail spaces and implementing a local hiring initiative for both construction and ongoing operations.
Central to our mission is the belief that housing is a human right. By providing 75 units of high-quality, affordable housing alongside community-focused commercial spaces, we're not just building apartments – we're creating a foundation for neighborhood revitalization and social equity.
This project exemplifies how thoughtful, inclusive design can be a powerful tool for urban transformation. As we move forward, we're committed to working closely with the community and our partners to ensure that this development truly meets their needs and aspirations, setting a new standard for equitable urban development in Chicago.
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