Chicago’s architectural landscape is filled with historic gems, each telling a unique story through its design and materials. One such treasure, a classic masonry building at 845 W. Belden Ave., recently underwent a thoughtful restoration under our care, preserving its character while strengthening it for the future.
The building W. Belden Ave. embodies the masonry style typical of late 19th-century Chicago architecture. This property, however, stands out not only for its timeless design but also for the rich character of its stonework. Over the decades, time and weather had worn down sections of the façade, especially the bases of the decorative columns supporting its grand balcony. For owners committed to preserving their building’s integrity, this project called for precision, care, and a commitment to detail.
One of our biggest challenges in this restoration was the original stone itself—a unique, patterned brownstone with a rich color and dark, coin-sized speckles that added distinct character to the building. Since no modern quarry produces an identical stone, exact replication was impossible. After careful research, we selected a sandstone with a similar color to approximate the look of the original. Although the new stone lacked the characteristic speckling, this choice allowed us to capture the building’s historic aesthetic and maintain its timeless charm.
Given the historic nature of the building, the project demanded a meticulous approach to protect surrounding areas. Rather than fully dismantling the balcony, which could risk damaging other original features, we focused on replacing only the damaged column bases. Using temporary supports and scaffolding to stabilize the structure, we were able to work precisely where needed, addressing the building’s most vulnerable areas without compromising its overall integrity.
Once the new column bases were installed, our skilled conservators undertook a color blending process to match the new sandstone with the existing stone. This final touch minimized the visual difference between the old and new materials, creating a cohesive appearance that honors the building’s history.
Our work at W. Belden Ave. highlights the importance of balancing structural needs with aesthetic integrity. By combining thoughtful material selection, skilled craftsmanship, and an understanding of historic architecture, we delivered a restoration that allows this building to continue standing proudly as a testament to Chicago’s architectural heritage.
This project serves as a reminder of the importance of careful, considerate restoration in preserving the character of historic buildings. Through projects like these, Chicago’s architectural history can continue to inspire, reflect, and endure for generations to come.