Born in the shadows of the Union Stockyards, the Back of The Yards has served as a model neighborhood for self-improvement and reinvention in Chicago for decades. From Chicago suburb to, "Butcher for the World" to, an enclave for untold numbers of immigrants and customs, the area continues to adapt to changing times. JGMA, along with Park Row Development, and the Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council has developed a concept for the next era of modernization. Near the intersection of Ashland Avenue and 47th Street a 7 story mixed-use building has been designed with this historic neighborhood in mind.
Grounded by a sun soaked central courtyard that connects directly to the transit corridor of Ashland Avenue, the building features 40,000 square feet of public programming including among other things, a neighborhood center, a community theater, and a new library on the ground floor. 99 units of affordable housing cascade around the site on upper stories. Clad in masonry, the material was chosen to connect the contemporary form with the industrial character of the area and connect with its rich history. Featuring a fully glazed first floor, the architecture floats over the site making it feel light and open despite the dense material above. The intent is to create a new hub for Back of the Yards; one that both acknowledges the area’s history and enriches its future.
This development is one of the leading projects introducing vivid and energetic spaces to Back of the Yards. Featuring a glut of public amenities and modern rental units, the project will be part of the next wave of innovation and progress on the south side.
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