HED, JGMA, bKl and Farr & Associates for Lathrop

Opened in 1938, the Julia C. Lathrop Homes was one of the Chicago’s Housing Authority’s (CHA) first developments. Its redevelopment as one of the last projects of the Plan for Transformation is a testament to its complex process of renewal for the 21st Century. Learning from 20 years of experience remaking historic CHA developments, and with the passion and commitment of Lathrop residents, community neighbors, housing advocates, and the CHA and elected officials, the redevelopment of the Lathrop Homes literally has involved more than a decade of planning, design, and construction that all agree was well worth the time and effort. Responding to the voice of the community as well as the Related Companies and its partners, the architects have created a complex that is beautiful, accessible, and welcoming while honoring the past and incorporating attributes and amenities that are right for the future. With new systems that earned the development a LEED Silver designation, the team preserved the architectural elements, the windows, stair rails, coping, limestone surrounds on exterior doors, and the paved central courtyard, that gave the buildings and the property grace and distinction. At the six corners of Diversey, Damen and Clybourn, Lathrop, for years invisible to passers-by and now a stunning presence, invites renters of all incomes to its two- and three-bedroom homes and neighbors to two new businesses that have opened—a welcome contribution to the neighborhood and city