We couldn’t have been more thrilled to be part of the team who completed this exceptional restoration & adaptive reuse project in Aurora.
Designed by ecclesiastical local architect Wybe J. Van der Meer, the former St. Charles Hospital was completed in 1932. The hospital’s construction alleviated local unemployment in the midst of the Great Depression, and served as a beacon of hope for the community. Gorgeous Art Deco brickwork and terracotta detailing on the building’s exterior reflected the community’s desire for a stately, then-contemporary structure that could capture the spirit of “modern” healthcare.
Despite significant interior renovations that occurred throughout the building’s history, many details original to the hospital were preserved, including the elaborate chapel and many of the interior cabinets, desks, and other furnishings. The final tenant of the building prior to its renovation was a nursing home, who departed the structure in 2010 — the same year it was named to the National Register of Historic Places.
The building’s elaborate brick detailing was in need of repair upon its 2016 renovation, and the tri-color appearance proved to be a challenge match. After dozens of site visits, we eventually were able to provide a custom blend of three “ruff”-texture Interstate Brick colors (Bronzestone, Golden Buff, and Pewter) to mimic the Landmark building’s existing appearance.
The hospital was converted to affordable senior living, and won numerous awards for its careful preservation and thoughtful reuse.
Learn more on the architect’s website.
Read how this project was called “A Gem” by the Chicago Tribune.
Read more about the development here, here, and here.
AWARDS:
— Landmarks Illinois’ 2017 Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Preservation Award for Rehabilitation
— Urban Land Institute Chicago 2018 Vision Award, “Historic Art Deco”
LOCATION: 400 E New York St, Aurora, IL 60505
This property is part of the National Register of Historic Places.
ARCHITECT: Weese Langley Weese
HISTORIC CONSULTANTS: MacRostie Historic Advisors
MASON: MBB Masonry
DEVELOPERS: Evergreen Real Estate Group, Invest Aurora, Northern Lights Development Co.
PRODUCTS SUPPLIED: Interstate Brick
