Hyde Park — with the main campus of one of the most prestigious universities in the country, world-class museums and cultural institutions, hundreds of acres of public parks, and some of Chicago’s most historic architecture — is one of the city’s most diverse and fascinating neighborhoods. It is also one of the most heavily built-up, so condo conversions are often the only option for new development in the area.
Developer Creative Designs Builders scored big with its acquisition of a 13-story, circa-1920 high-rise at 5346 S. Cornell Ave, near a Metra station, Burnham Park and Lake Shore Drive. The former apartment building, which is brick with limestone detailing and ornate terra cotta reliefs, is being converted to the 72-unit Silver Cloud Condominium Homes. As if the vintage building weren’t august enough already, the developer is wrapping it with a stainless steel fence designed to look like the grille of a 1950s Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud.
Inside, buyers will find modern, Italian-inspired design including custom cabinetry, eucalyptus hardwood floors, mosaic porcelain tile, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and bathroom fixtures by Tenda Dorica. Top-floor units have 13-foot ceiling heights, and some units have new steel balconies. Building amenities include the “Silver Screen” media room, an exercise room, daytime door staff and a dog run.
Condos have two bedrooms, two bathrooms and 1,016 to 1,157 square feet. Prices range from the $230s to the $430s.