Commission honors Chicago's best preservation projects
22 honorees presented with 2010 "Preservation Excellence Awards"
Peter Strazzabosco 312.744.9267
Rehabilitation projects involving Chicago's largest fountain, most recognized retail building and one of its oldest train stations are among the 2010 recipients of the "Landmark Awards for Preservation Excellence"
Presented today by the Commission on Chicago Landmarks, the annual awards recognize outstanding improvements to designated City of Chicago landmarks and properties within official landmark districts.
"These projects demonstrate how property owners are vital to the ongoing viability of Chicago's historic assets," said Mayor Richard M. Daley. "The Preservation Excellence awards are a great way to recognize their efforts."
This year's honorees involve a wide variety of adaptive reuse projects, interior and exterior rehabilitations, a new park, and a restored bridge. Each project participated in the Landmark Commission's permit review process and some utilized city financial incentives. A stewardship effort is also being recognized.
The winners received their awards at a special ceremony at the Chicago Cultural Center. Images and information about each project is available below.
The 10-member Landmarks Commission recommends buildings and districts for landmark protection to City Council. It also works with homeowners, businesses, organizations and developers to promote the preservation and maintenance of historic properties. The Commission has presented the Preservation Excellence Awards every year since 1998.
To date, there are 293 individual landmarks and 53 landmark districts throughout Chicago. Citywide, more than 9,500 buildings, sites and structures are protected through the city's landmark program.
The honorees include:
Carson Pirie Scott & Co. Building
Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain and Gardens
Lindemann & Hoverson Co. Showroom and Warehouse
Michigan Avenue Bridge and Wacker Drive Esplanade
On Leong Merchants Association Building