The lobbies in Chicago’s vintage luxury buildings vary widely in size and opulence. Some are exceedingly modest, and some were built on a grand scale.
One of Chicago’s more interesting lobbies is at 1448 North Lake Shore Drive, a 19-story, 52-unit limestone and brick cooperative completed in 1927.
The oak-paneled lobby has arched, leaded windows, with bench seating, fronting Lake Shore Drive. It’s sparsely furnished with leather and wood period furniture, a chandelier and a large tapestry.
The most striking aspect of the lobby, to me, was the subtly-colored faience tile floor. The patterning and the individual tiles command attention.
The lobby’s painted beams are akin to the ceiling in the king’s bedroom at the Chateau de Blois, which has been said to be an inspiration for the building.
Four units are currently for sale in the building, ranging from a 1-bedroom maisonette priced at $335,000 to a 5,250 square foot, 4-bedroom, 4 ½ bath home on the 16th floor listed at $2,995,000. The building allows 50% financing of units.