Little remains of the W. C. Reebie & Brother storage building in Uptown

Posted on November 25, 2024 by danieldschell

Demolition of the W. C. Reebie & Brother storage building in Uptown, Chicago Nov 20, 2024.

Demolition of the former W. C. Reebie & Brother storage building has left little remaining of the Uptown structure, save for the rearmost shell of the five stories that stood on the site for 100+ years. The George Kingsley-designed building at 5035 North Broadway was purchased in 2018 by TimeLine Theatre; they’ll soon begin turning the property into their new home, once demo contractor Milburn Demolition has wrapped up work.

The first iteration of the new theatre would have saved the building’s façade, but TimeLine deemed that plan unfeasible due to a number of factors, including further evaluation of the structural integrity of the existing edifice. Architecture firm HGA then drew up new designs to completely redo the front portions of the building for performance spaces, while integrating the rear levels for office use.

TimeLine Theatre’s new venue is set to include a range of features aimed at enhancing both visitor and artist experiences. Plans highlight a lobby café and bar alongside a 250-seat black box theatre designed for flexibility and transformation. The space will also house exhibit galleries to complement TimeLine’s immersive and interactive lobby experiences. Behind the scenes, the facility will offer dedicated areas for collaboration, including a rehearsal room, production and design studios, and staff offices. Additionally, their Living History program will have its own dedicated space, which will also serve as a resource for community meetings and events.

TimeLine has raised nearly $40 million toward toward the new facility. They expect to begin putting on shows here early in 2026.

W. C. Reebie & Brother storage building demolition — The W. C. Reebie & Brother storage building, pre-demolition.

720 North Wells is now gone

Posted on August 25, 2024 by danieldschell

The former 720 North Wells in River North.

Unless you count the rubble, 720 North Wells has now been completely demolished. The four-story River North stalwart stood since the 1870s. many say it should have been afforded preservation as an historic structure, but it “slipped through the cracks” according to the Chicago Tribune.

Photograph everything. Just like our pets, grandparents, and perfectly-cooked steaks, nothing is here forever. Preserve their memories, and photograph everything. We all have cameras in our pockets. They do much more than just make phone calls. Use them.

Photos of the rubble, taken August 22, 2024:

Photos of the demolition process, in no particular order:

Enjoying the photos? Metra and CTA rides (and Amtrak trains to Milwaukee), Zipcars, Divvy Bikes, camera lenses, domain fees, snacks & energy drinks, and comfortable walking shoes add up. You can help offset expenses by making a greatly-appreciated donation to Building Up Chicago.

Former Jefferson Park Hospital building begins demolition for 1400 Monroe

Posted on February 12, 2020 by danieldschell

Demo has begun at 1400 West Monroe, clearing the way for 1400 Monroe.

There’s a new condo building coming to 1400 West Monroe in the West Loop. But first, what used to be Jefferson Park Hospital, among other things, has to go.

Milburn Demolition & Dismantling has begun tearing down the old building. When they’re done, work will begin on 1400 Monroe, a new condominium project developed by JK Equities. The seven-story, Booth Hansen-designed property will deliver 42 luxury 2- and 3-bedroom condos next to Skinner Park.