pROJECT: Redsky Capital

PROJECT OVERVIEW

Located in the heart of Chicago’s West Loop, 1140–1146 W Madison stands as a testament to the power of adaptive reuse. Once home to hotels, warehouses, and even a Prohibition-era speakeasy operated by “West Side Jack,” this collection of 1890s-era buildings has been completely reimagined into a vibrant hub of timber and loft-style office, retail, and restaurant spaces.

We were brought on to help bring this ambitious vision to life—transforming historic charm into modern functionality while preserving the building’s storied character.

tHE CHALLENGE

Revitalizing these century-old structures came with a host of logistical and regulatory challenges. The project required:

• Water service and sewer upgrades on a main artery of Chicago—demanding meticulous planning and coordination with multiple city departments to avoid disruptions and meet municipal standards.
• Installation of a new elevator and sprinkler system—essential for modern accessibility and compliance, yet difficult to integrate into historic construction.
• Life safety and code upgrades—balancing the preservation of vintage architecture with current-day standards for commercial occupancy.

In short, this wasn’t just a renovation—it was a full transformation that required tight planning, constant adaptation, and deep familiarity with city permitting, legacy construction, and commercial code requirements.

oUR APPROACH

With extensive experience in adaptive reuse and urban construction, our team navigated every phase of the project with precision. We worked closely with city officials to secure permits and schedule utility work in ways that minimized impact on traffic and neighboring businesses.

Inside, we integrated a state-of-the-art elevator system, full sprinkler network, and comprehensive life safety upgrades, all while respecting the structural integrity and aesthetic legacy of the original buildings. Coordination across multiple disciplines and a flexible, solutions-oriented mindset were key to keeping the project on schedule and aligned with the developer’s goals.

THE RESULT

The finished property is a standout in the West Loop—a seamless blend of Chicago’s rich past and its dynamic present. With 35 commercial units, modern infrastructure, and the preserved character of exposed brick, timber beams, and tall ceilings, 1142 W Madison now serves as a vibrant, multi-use destination for work, dining, and retail.