Last week the Sun-Times reported that Baum Realty Group has submitted a proposal to turn the Frederick Cooper Lamp factory, 2545 W Diversey Ave, into “live-work” lofts. The plan was devised as a bit of a compromise between those who want this giant Logan Square space to become yet another factory, which would create jobs, and those who would rather see the 240,000-square-foot building renovated into condos. David Baum, principal and co-owner of Baum Realty, said his proposal would allow those with a business license to live in the space, provided they work from the property as well.
This seems like a good compromise since MCZ Development already tried to purchase the building for a condo conversion and alderman Manny Flores opposed the deal. Baum says the building would be a hard sell to a potential manufacturer because of its “columns, low ceilings and limited dock access.”
We agree with Chicagoist, which said it’s a good thing the new developers are at least nodding to the building’s heritage as a manufacturing facility. However, we think suggesting that a brothel would be suitable for the live-work space is simply inappropriate. We’d be more apt to suggest a morgue or a meth lab. We’re just thinking practically here.