Archive Archives: Projects

We have been fortunate to work on several awesome locations of True Food Kitchen with Aria Group Architects.

Learn more about this project on the architect’s website.

ARCHITECTS: Aria Group (tenant), Antunovich Associates (building)
INSTALL: Northern Glass, Inc
GC: LG Construction
PRODUCT SUPPLIED: LaCantina Doors

Chicago neighborhoods are filled to the brim with hidden gems of 1920s architecture — this one, a sprawling courtyard building in West Ridge known as “Park Castle,” might be one of the best! Built in 1925 and designed by architect James Denson, the complex features lavish brickwork, castle-like turrets, lush landscaping, and sweeping views overlooking Indian Boundary Park.

When it came time to make a series of repairs to the distinctive crenellations of this historic structure, the property management company salvaged as much original brick as possible before seeking out a custom blend of replacement bricks for infill where needed. We provided a three-color mix of vertical scratch Summit Brick in “Misty Grey,” “Medium Buff,” and “Light Buff,” as well as a number of special shapes for some of the unique angles.

The fun of new construction projects is being able to show off a flashy new addition to our city’s streetscapes… restoration projects like this one are best when they’re almost impossible to notice!  All the same, it’s a delight to know we played a small role in helping preserve an architectural treasure for future generations. Pro tip: if you ever get a chance to tour the inside… ask to see the swimming pool and its drool-worthy tile!

LOCATION: 2416 W. Greenleaf Ave. Chicago, IL 60645

ENGINEER: K2N-Crest
GC: Classic Restoration
PRODUCTS SUPPLIED: Summit Brick

Talk about a very satisfying before-and-after! Back in 2016, we helped transform the fenestration along the eastern side of Dos Urban Cantina in Logan Square. Three fixed windows opposite the bustling bar were replaced by three sets of bifolding LaCantina Doors, allowing the cozy taqueria to invite summer breezes into their dining area. On the other side of the wall, the #restaurant’s sidewalk cafe benefits from the new folding windows too — the openings help the patio area feel more connected to and integrated with the #nterior space.

Unfortunately, summer doesn’t last forever… which is why these thermally-controlled aluminum systems are great! Come wintertime, they close tight to keep Chicago’s harsh winter weather outside, meaning diners around the perimeter of the room stay toasty warm. It really goes to show that something as simple as a window replacement can totally overhaul the everyday experience of our homes & businesses! Check out our work sometime and satisfy your burrito cravings at the same time.

LOCATION: 2829 W. Armitage Ave, Chicago IL 60647

INSTALLATION: Mark Roman / Facilities Planning & Construction
PRODUCTS SUPPLIED: LaCantina Doors

Prior to the 2018 renovation of this Old Town property, the wall connecting the back deck and cozy living room featured two windows and a set of traditional French doors. Look more closely, however, and you’ll notice this little patio is really more of a stair landing — to the north is a spiral staircase leading up to spacious outdoor areas on the third floor and rooftop; to the south is a set of stairs for accessing the shady porch atop the garage!

As a result, this small area contains the family’s grill… and not much else. The previous fenestration, which parted in the middle, essentially blocked movement up both staircases. The homeowners opted to replace this clunky arrangement with an amazing three-panel bi folding system from Centor, which functions much better in the space. Residents can now open the doors completely by folding them off to just one side, or they can leave two panels locked in place and use the southernmost panel as a daily passage door. Either way, their guests can enjoy much more fluid access between the main floor of the home and its many exterior terraces.

Double-glazing with Argon gas and an insulated thermal barrier protect the home from chilly Chicago winters, while an integrated bug screen or light-filtering shade can be pulled over the opening from hidden pockets at either end. Suffice it to say, this minimally invasive remodeling choice was a vast improvement over the original design!

LOCATION: Old Town, Chicago

ARCHITECT: Paskevich Architects
GC: Bigane Construction
PRODUCT SUPPLIED: Centor screens

Connecting a screened-in porch to the main area of your home in a way that feels seamless — yet keeps the elements from encroaching on your main living space — can present quite the design challenge. Thankfully, LaCantina pocket doors proved to be the perfect solution for this wooded vacation home! When the doors are open, they fully disappear into the wall, doubling the size of the cottage’s cozy living area (and allowing those seasonable breezes to drift from the covered porch all throughout the home).

In colder weather, the three-seasons room can be partitioned off from the main space in seconds with the help of this handsome, thermally-controlled door system. The owners also found that shutting the porch off from the rest of the home at night was pivotal for keeping mice and other pesky creatures out of the kitchen.

With the home perched atop a hill, about 300 feet above the dirt access road that winds through this secluded valley, our installers had to hand carry each portion of the door system up to the house one piece at a time. Well worth the effort, we think!

BUILDER: Hope Builders Group (Elkhart, IN)
INSTALLER: Facilities Planning & Construction
PRODUCTS SUPPLIED: LaCantina Doors

We might be biased… but is any restaurant patio truly complete without a set of bifolding windows or doors? Take a look at the set of new fenestration we provided to Chicago steakhouse Smith & Wollensky’s back in 2016.

Located on the upper deck of their expansive riverfront space, these wood-clad folding windows were painted a custom PANTONE hue on the exterior to match the brand’s established green color palette. Even patrons dining inside can now enjoy the temperate breezes blowing in off the water all summer long! These kinds of four seasons solutions are great for Midwestern eateries, who face exceptional demand for outdoor dining in the summer and zero demand in the winter. Creative window design allows restaurant owners to maximize the desirability of their entire space, all year long.

LOCATION: 318 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654

GC: Kern Konstruction
INSTALLER: Mark Roman / Facilities Planning & Construction
PRODUCTS SUPPLIED: Door Innovations

A few years ago, the residents of Batavia, Illinois were treated to a gorgeous new Walgreens location! Working with architects at Camburas Theodore LTD, we provided a suite of attractive masonry for this anchor retail location in the heart of downtown. Located just steps from the Fox River, and nestled amongst scores of small businesses, the community was eager to see a pedestrian-friendly design that existed in harmony with the historic buildings nearby.

The choice of “Frontenac” stone veneer from Shouldice designer stone proved to be the perfect selection for the pharmacy’s corner façade— the warm buff & grey color palette complimented the 1920s structure next door, while coming in at price point pleasing to the developers. A matching stone knee wall separating the parking area from the street creates an approachable streetscape and invites passersby into the complex.

Classic “Mountain Red” utility brick from Interstate brick was used for the bulk of the new building, matching the chain’s aesthetic. Horizontal bands of light brown, variegated “Desert Sand” brick help minimize the massing of the architecture and match the rustic stone accents. The next time you find yourself in Chicago’s western suburbs, drop by and tell us what you think!

LOCATION: 122 W. Wilson St, Batavia IL 60510

ARCHITECT: Camburas Theaodore LTD 

GC: DEJAMES
MASON: Dave Abel Masonry
PRODUCTS SUPPLIED: Interstate Brick, Shouldice

Prior to the 2018 renovation of this Old Town property, the wall connecting the back deck and cozy living room featured two windows and a set of traditional french doors. Look more closely, however, and you’ll notice this little patio is really more of a stair landing — to the north is a spiral staircase leading up to spacious outdoor areas on the third floor and rooftop; to the south is a set of stairs for accessing the shady porch atop the garage!

As a result, this small area contains the family’s grill… and not much else. The previous fenestration, which parted in the middle, essentially blocked movement up both staircases. The homeowners opted to replace this clunky arrangement with an amazing three-panel bi-folding system from Centor, which functions much better in the space. Residents can now open the doors completely by folding them off to just one side, or they can leave two panels locked in place and use the southernmost panel as a daily passage door. Either way, their guests can enjoy much more fluid access between the main floor of the home and its many exterior terraces.

Double-glazing with Argon gas and an insulated thermal barrier protect the home from chilly Chicago winters, while an integrated bug screen or light-filtering shade can be pulled over the opening from hidden pockets at either end. Suffice it to say, this minimally invasive remodeling choice was a vast improvement over the original design!

LOCATION: Old Town, Chicago
ARCHITECT: Paskevich & Associates Architects
GC: Bigane Construction
PRODUCT SUPPLIED:  Centor

Patterned brick work is HOT right now, and we couldn’t be more excited about it! In the past year, we’ve seen a noticeable uptick in architects requesting advice for detailing screen walls, unique brick bonds, and protruding header designs like the one pictured here.

Back in 2016, we supplied material for this 3-unit residential condo building on the border of Chicago’s Humboldt Park and Ukrainian Village neighborhoods — and it’s an excellent example of how cool creations don’t have to come at an unreasonable cost.

Most brick made today has circular “core holes” running through the middle of each brick. The exact number, size, shape, and arrangement of these holes varies by manufacturer, but they all serve a similar purpose: to keep material costs low, to help the brick weigh less, to more securely adhere adjoining bricks in a wall, and to help the clay dry and cook consistently.

Normally, you can’t even tell the core holes are there. But, when you start turning & projecting masonry, or leaving open spaces between bricks (like in a screen wall)… you have to be mindful of where those holes are. It looks kind of silly if you can see them poking out.

So: if you plan to use brick in a way where the holes can be seen from above or below, make sure you specify solid bricks in these areas. There’s an additional cost for solid units, but any manufacturer can make them for you (it’s a common request).

Another way to avoid core holes poking out? Know your material! For this project, the designers smartly projected only about ¾” of the brick out of the wall. The core holes remain totally hidden inside the wall, the mason didn’t have to order any special shapes, and this protruding Flemish Bond pattern creates gorgeous, ever-changing shadows on the façade of this building all day long.

We love this use of a cream-colored structural brick border too, don’t you?

LOCATION: Humboldt Park
ARCHITECT: dSpace Studio 
GC: Bigane Construction
MASON: Total Masonry
PRODUCT SUPPLIED: Structural Brick

Our sales team spends hundreds of hours each year working on public school masonry projects. Whether they’re suburban districts or Chicago Public Schools, additions or repairs, one thing’s for sure: there’s probably going to be some brick matching involved!

In the latter half of the 19th century, Chicago’s population swelled by a factor of six, and new laws were passed requiring school attendance for children under 14. That translated to an explosion of school construction: between 1893 and 1910, the city added roughly 10 schools per year… and nearly all were built with brick. That trend continued right up until the 1940s, encompassing the construction of William C. Goudy Elementary School in 1937 (pictured here).

Goudy School received a large, much-needed addition to the south in 2003, but fourteen years later, harsh Midwestern winters had taken their toll. As part of a repair effort encompassing routine tuck pointing and parapet work, we were tasked to match & supply bricks that would seamlessly blend in with both eras of the building. If you look really, really closely, you might be able to spot where the new material was filled in … but this custom, four-color Interstate Brick blend of “Desert Sand,” “Golden Buff,” “Ochre Buff,” and “Copperstone” is pretty tricky to spot (that means a job well done)!

The students at Goudy today speak over 40 different languages, making it one of the most diverse schools in the city. We’re honored to have this feather in our cap — and can’t wait to show you the next few school projects we’re working on!

LOCATION: 5120 N Winthrop Ave, Chicago, IL 60640

ARCHITECT: Urban Works
GC: All-Bry Construction
PRODUCTS SUPPLIED: Interstate Brick

This contemporary single-family home sits atop a slight rise, overlooking one of the many inland lakes dotting the countryside of Keeler Township, Michigan.

We think you’ll agree that this warm-hued Oklahoma sandstone — cut to three different heights, blended by hand onsite, and dry stacked without mortar — makes for a perfect accent to the clean horizontality of the exterior hardwood. Along the lakeside elevation, we also provided state-of-the-art bifolding LaCantina Doors to invite inside all those warm summer breezes.

BUILDER: JB Builders (woman-owned!)
ARCHITECT: WK Olson Architects
PRODUCTS SUPPLIED: Oklahoma Sandstone (similar to NSVI’s “Virginia Ledgestone”), LaCantina Doors

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

Adding ultra-contemporary fenestration to a historic façade can be a tricky design challenge. Especially in Chicago, many architects and building owners want to create something that will blend seamlessly into the existing streetscape… without sacrificing the energy efficiency and sleek functionality of modern products.

Fortunately for all of us that like to mix the old with the new, LaCantina Doors are available in a wide range of finishes. For this project in Logan Square, we provided a set of bi-folding wood windows that were stained and treated to match the vintage Wild West aesthetic of the restaurant’s décor. When closed, they look right at home on this early 1900s storefront! Yet the space also benefits from the ability to fold them off to the side in warm summer weather. After all, who doesn’t like a gentle evening breeze with their meal?

Though the original tenant of this bar & grill space closed down, we know it won’t be long before it’s repurposed. With a location close to the CTA Blue Line — and these awesome multipurpose windows already installed — this property is a seriously desirable commercial opportunity!

LOCATION: 2528 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

ARCHITECT: The Dobbins Group
GC: Michael Hrusovsky Company
PRODUCT SUPPLIED: LaCantina Doors

950 W Fulton is one of the original industrial structures built in Fulton Market. Originally constructed in 1907, past occupants included Edwards & Sons horse-shoers, the Chicago Smoked Fish Company, and several different meat wholesalers.

In 2013, the building became one of the first commercial properties in the area to be rehabilitated, kicking off a transformative decade for the neighborhood. When repairing the parapets and adding to the building, we worked with building owner 555 and the Chicago Landmarks team to source a tumbled red/burgundy brick by Brampton to match the original. It’s hard to tell where the infill is… but that’s on purpose! Interestingly enough, this is the same brick we matched and sold as infill to the Aviary right across the street at 955 W Fulton.

When Morgan’s on Fulton entered the picture in 2015, we returned to the building to provide two sets of LaCantina sliding doors to the new rooftop patio!

LOCATION: 950 W Fulton, Chicago, IL 60607
This property is part of the Fulton Market Historic District.
To learn more about the area’s history, click here.

OWNER: 555
GC: Infocus Builders
WINDOW INSTALLER: Mark Roman
PRODUCTS SUPPLIED: Brampton Brick, LaCantina Doors

In 2017, Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward gained one truly gorgeous Shake Shack location. The interior, as designed by Aria Group Architects, utilizes a gorgeous long-format black brick made by German manufacturer Röben. As one of the blackest bricks we carry, “Faro Schwarz Glatt” (seen here in LDF size) is a great color choice for this super-cool brick screen. We love the way the light filters through… almost as we love Shake Shack’s commitment to green architecture and eco-friendly construction.

In addition to the exceptional brick choice, this location also features recycled lumber and tabletops made from reclaimed bowling alley lanes!

Read more about Aria Group + Shake Shack here.
Read more about the development here.

LOCATION: 220 E Buffalo St Suite 110, Milwaukee, WI 53202
This property is part of the HISTORIC THIRD WARD DISTRICT.
To learn more about the area’s history, click here.

ARCHITECT: Aria Group
GC: Thorndale Construction
PRODUCT SUPPLIED: Roeben Brick USA

Believe it or not, this bustling waterfront commercial district in St. Charles was a patchwork of empty lots less than a decade ago! The ultra-local redevelopment project has created a vibrant, walkable stretch of businesses and dining just across the Fox River from the town’s historic Main Street.

Read more about the development here.
See the project timeline and plans for future progress here.

PROJECTS INCLUDED / PRODUCTS SUPPLIED:

• Sterling Bank — 10 Illinois St, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Brampton Brick: “Benton,” “Shelby,” and “Gibson” 
• Alter Brewing — 12 S First Street, St. Charles IL 60174
  Brampton Brick: “Graystone” 
• ALE Solutions — 1 W Illinois St, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Summit Brick: custom tumbled blend of “Scheffield,” “Adamello,” “Espresso,” “Market Street,” and “Ivy League”
• 101 S First — 1 S First Street, St. Charles IL 60174
  Reclaimed Chicago Commons: “Sand Buff”
  
• 100-200 S First — St. Charles IL 60174
  Brampton Brick: “Crossroads” Series (various) 

ARCHITECT OF RECORD: Marshall Architects
MASON: DTM Masonry

It’s not every day you get to work on a building once home to Jesse Owens, Quincy Jones, Gwendolyn Brooks, and Nat King Cole! The historic Rosenwald Apartments take their name from Sears Roebuck magnate Julius Rosenwald, who funded the development in 1929 to address the overcrowded conditions of Chicago’s South Side black community.

Inspired by a trip to Austria’s attractive municipal housing complexes, Rosenwald selected his nephew, Adler Planetarium architect Ernest Grunsfeld, to design the enormous, 400+ unit complex. During Bronzeville’s mid-century heyday, the structures were a fixture of the community. Sadly, conditions began to deteriorate as the years wore on, and despite being added to the NRHP in 1981, the buildings were completely abandoned in 2000 due to poor conditions and mismanagement. We were thrilled to be a part of its 2016 rehabilitation, which fully restored the structure, created hundreds of modern affordable housing units, and saved this important part of our city’s history!

The Arts & Crafts detailing of the brickwork — and significant level of disrepair — necessitated custom masonry sizes, shapes, and colors to be recreated for repairs and infill. A special smashed vertical scratch texture was produced in 8″ modular size at our Watsontown factory. Three colors (Manor, Madison, and Richland) were blended for a perfect match.

We also supplied Landmarks-approved window replacements from Sierra Pacific‘s “Monument Series,” which were produced in a custom color with custom brick moulding to match the originals.

AWARDS:
— Chicago Neighborhood Development Awards – The Outstanding For-Profit Neighborhood Real Estate Project Award
— Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Preservation Award 2017
— Chicago Landmarks Historic Preservation Award 2017
— ACHP/HUD Secretary’s Award for Excellence in Historic Preservation 2018

LOCATION: 4648 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60653
This property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Visit the building’s website.
See images of the six adjacent walkups also renovated as part of the scope.
Read about the building’s history and 2007 demolition threat.
Read more about the building’s history on Curbed Chicago.

ARCHITECT: Hooker DeJong Inc., John Joyce Architects
GC: The George Sollitt Construction Co., Powers & Sons
MASON: Restore Masonry
DEVELOPER: Lighten-Gale Group, Landwhite Development
PRODUCTS SUPPLIED: Watsontown Brick, Sierra Pacific Windows

Yet another renovation success thanks to LaCantina Doors doors! Check out these photos of a residential project we worked on in the Ravenswood neighborhood of Chicago. This savvy homeowner knew that a revamped backyard was far from complete without a snazzy new set of bifolding doors to access it.

We provided a massive, 15-foot wide system that allows the family to fully retract the whole rear-facing elevation of their kitchen for a seamless transition to the patio and porch beyond. Integrated screens keep the bugs out all summer long, while the aluminum exterior is weather resistant and easy to clean. Contrasting Douglas Fir was selected for the inside frame — a popular combination known as “Aliwood” — and stained to match the rest of the chic  interior design.

LOCATION: Ravenswood, Chicago IL

ARCHITECT: Design Seed
GC: Mark Roman / Facilities Planning & Construction
PRODUCTS SUPPLIED: LaCantina Doors

In 2016, we had the pleasure of providing several beautiful Watstontown Brick colors to the new Water Street District of Naperville. Anchored by Hotel Indigo and tenant-developer Marquette Management‘s headquarters, this bustling mixed-use area was thoughtfully planned and designed by the minds of SGW Architecture & Design.

Today, visitors can enjoy numerous restaurants, upscale shopping, public art along the revamped riverwalk, and ample parking. Inspired by European space-use theory, the district was carefully crafted to feel welcoming to pedestrians. The old-world sanded texture and color variation of the Watsontown face brick used throughout adds to the charm and handcrafted aesthetic of the area, while “Atlas” structural brick by Interstate Brick adds stability behind the scenes.

It’s exciting to walk through the completed area these days and appreciate the rich variety of masonry we were able to furnish! Check it out the next time you’re in Naperville and let us know what you think.

LOCATION: 120 Water Street Naperville, IL 60540

ARCHITECT: SGW Architecture & Design
GC: Lend Lease
DEVELOPER: Marquette Management
MASON: A Plus Tuckpointing
PRODUCTS SUPPLIED: Interstate Brick, Watsontown Brick

Anyone familiar with Wicker Park knows of the grand Victorian-era mansions that line Hoyne Avenue! This property, situated within a spitting distance of the landmark district’s stately homes, aimed to utilize traditional materials and classic detailing to keep within the aesthetic limitations of the historic area. A preserved and restored coach house in the rear of the home was also thoughtfully incorporated into Wheeler Kearns’ award-winning new design.

Watsontown Brick provided beautiful molded brick for the home’s side elevations, with a custom “Roman” long-format brick made to match for the building’s striking front facade. We also supplied granite sills and garden edgers by Coldsprings to the project, which are a loving reference to the granite sidewalk details found throughout the mansion-lined parkways of the surrounding streets.

Read more about this project on the architect’s website.
Check out the home tour from Curbed Chicago.

2019 – Brick in Architecture Awards: Silver, Residential Single-Family
2018 – “Best of Housing – Single Family” Excellence in Masonry Awards

LOCATION: Wicker Park, Chicago
This property is part of the WICKER PARK HISTORIC DISTRICT.
To learn more about the area’s history, click here.

ARCHITECT: Wheeler Kearns Architecture
GC: Power Construction
STRUCTURAL: Enspect Engineering
LANDSCAPE: Hoerr Schaudt
PRODUCTS SUPPLIED: Watsontown Brick, Coldspring Granite

The Ravenswood House was designed by SPACE Architects + Planners with several challenges in mind.

1. The location: a corner lot in with industrial buildings on one side, and small homes on the other. Within this mix, their clients wanted a house that blended into the neighborhood.
2. Traffic and privacy: The lot runs up against a very active sidewalk, street and train tracks. The clients wanted to maintain the privacy of the house despite its public location.
3. Open living space – including a fluid transition between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

The result? A traditionalist exterior brick design (in “Terra Cotta” color, by Interstate Brick) concealing a modern interior… plus a cool brick privacy screen and LaCantina folding patio doors.

Read the full case study about this project here.
See more photos on the architect’s website.

This landmark Lake Forest residence, an original creation by notable mid-century architect Ike W. Colburn, was subject to strict design requirements during its 2016 redesign to preserve the Asian teahouse style of the original architecture.

Massey Associates did an exceptional job with the tasteful new additions to the property, including a modern kitchen with multiple sliding LaCantina Doors that open the space up to the expansive yard and beautifully landscaped two acre grounds. Triple glazing brought added energy efficiency to the home, and integrated Centor screens seamlessly pull out from the walls to provide extra defense against summer bugs.

The City of Lake Forest has an exceptional historic preservation division that has created an extensive register of historic properties in the area. Just up the street from this home is the Green Bay Road District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and containing single-family works by Henry Ives Cobb, Howard Van Doren Shaw, Holabird & Roche, and a few other designs by Colburn.

See more photos on the architect’s website.

ARCHITECT: Massey Associates 
GC: James LaDuke & Associates
PHOTOS: Dave Burk
PRODUCTS SUPPLIED: LaCantina Doors, Centor Screens

Known as the Lipton-Thayer house, this Evanston residence is easily one of our favorite projects of all time!

Featuring a two-color blend of bricks from Lakewood Summit Brick, the brick weave enclosing the private courtyard of this home is a structural and design masterpiece. A case study on this project is forthcoming, so stay tuned!

Architect: Brooks + Scarpa
GC: Studio Dwell
Structural: Louis Shell Structures

Products Supplied: Lakewood/Summit Brick

Read more about the project on Archello.
Read more about the project on Dezeen.
See more photos on the architect’s website.
Read more about ArchDaily.

In 2017, Nancy Hill Elementary in Aurora, Illinois was completely rebuilt & reimagined.

Wanting to honor the legacy of the original, late 1800s redbrick school building, the new building was clad in Roeben “Westerwald Bunt Glatt” thin brick. The variation of color in the new brick mimics the old flashed brick, but was installed using modern high precision precast construction.

Read about the project on the architect’s website.

Project Location: 724 Pennslyvania Ave Aurora, IL 60506

Architect: Athi Toufexis at Studio GC
General Contractor: Henry Bros Co. (Hickory Hills)
Precaster: Lombard Architectural Precast Products Co. (Alsip)
Masonry: Mastership Construction Co. (Libertyville)
Product Manufacturers: Roeben

A few years ago, we helped bring this LDS meeting house in the heart of Chicago’s River North neighborhood to fruition. Designed by Salt Lake City-based architecture firm Dixon + Associates, the sanctuary and community center also utilized Utah’s own Interstate Brick!

The architects sought to marry the international aesthetic guidelines of the church with the distinct architectural language of its Midwestern surroundings. Settling on this traditional pairing of redbrick and limestone, the postmodern structure references elements of the city’s ubiquitous Art Deco and Romanesque Revival masterpieces — even duplicating the U-shaped layout of nearby Bush Temple. This common turn-of-the-century design allows sunlight to permeate every room of the building, and creates a shady private courtyard where visitors can enjoy the outdoors.

Given the meeting house’s location so close to the property line, it was also imperative that the construction conform to Chicago’s strict fire code. By supplying “Terra Cotta” Atlas structural brick to the project, we ensured that all exterior walls offered a 4-hour fire rating. Holy smokes!

LOCATION: 822 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60610

ARCHITECT: Dixon + Associates
GC: McHugh Construction
MASON: All Masonry
PRODUCTS SUPPLIED: Interstate Brick

Check out this fabulous set of LaCantina bifolding doors! Another great patio seamlessly integrated with a classy modernist living room space. Integrated Centor screens pull out from either end to keep the bugs at bay. Note the Sierra Pacific windows on the adjacent corner, which use a “zero post” design for an ultra-minimal framing effect. You can barely tell there’s a window there at all!

On other elevations of the home, including the front, we supplied multiple configurations of Sierra Pacific casement windows. Long-format brick picked out in our showroom adds a linear effect to the facade of this sleek single-family home.

GC: Maverick Development
ARCHITECT: 360 Design Studio
INSTALL: R&R Glass
PRODUCTS SUPPLIED: LaCantina Doors, Sierra Pacific Windows, Centor Screens

While working with Cordogan Clark and Associates, an established Aurora / Chicago design firm, we were able to find an appropriate selection of large clay veneer material options to clad this nearly 132,000 square foot educational facility.

Interstate Brick  in the 2-1/4″ tall x 15-5/8″ long “Emperor” size and also the 7-5/8″ tall x 15-5/8″ long “Super Emperor” size were chosen.  Color such as Moroccan Brown, Arctic White, Tumbleweed, and Mountain Red were all used in portions of the building’s skin.  All bricks supplied on this project are nominally 16″ long!  Economies of scale allowed the designers to achieve the appearance desired, while staying within their budget on the masonry scope of work.

Check out the project post on Cordogan Clark and Associates’ website here.

Location: 18 S River St, Aurora, IL 60506

General Contractor: Turner Construction (Project Link)
Products Supplied: Interstate Brick

In 2016 we were involved in a project in Verona, Wisconsin, USA.  The client, Epic, designed the “Oz” building themed after the Wizard of Oz Movie.  The green glazing was applied to pieces of custom-cut lava (yes, lava) carved out of huge blocks sourced in France.  Hundreds of color options exist – check out Pyro Lave’s website to see examples.

The aluminum grid system used to support the rain screen / ventilated facade is manufactured in Texas, USA.

Location: 1979 Milky Way, Verona, WI 53593

Technical Engineering: Gridworx
GC: Findorff
Products Supplied: Pyro Lave – Glazed Lava 

On a recent trip (2017), we visited a number of Danish projects using various products we now represent in the US.

Europe has had rain screen products for decades.  Now the US is beginning to design with the materials made of slate, fired clay, lava, terra cotta and other natural materials.

Many of these products have Cradle to Cradle certification.  Learn more about C2C here.  Learn more about Komproment products and their C2C certifications here.

Product Supplied: Komproment VIDAR

On a recent trip (2017) we visited a number of Danish projects using various products we now represent in the US.

Europe has had rain screen products for decades.  Now the US is beginning to design with the materials made of slate, fired clay, lava, terra cotta and other natural materials.

Many of these products have Cradle to Cradle certification.  Learn more about C2C here.  Learn more about Komproment products and their C2C certifications here.

Product Supplied: Komproment VIDAR

Anyone dreaming of pool season? Back in 2016, we provided three different LaCantina Door systems for this totally awesome waterfront cabana in Valparaiso, Indiana. With two sides facing Louise Lake, and one facing the inground pool, the owner sought different large-format openings for each side of his “libation station.”

On the short side of the structure, leading down a set of stairs to the lakefront, we provided a set of bifolding doors. For the side opposite the pool, multislide doors part in the middle to allow additional access to the lake and sloping, tree-edged lawn. For the pool deck, however, the owner was very specific about his desire for a set of huge pocket doors that would  completely disappear into the walls and out of sight! Integrated Centor Screens were installed on all three sides to provide easily accessible (yet completely hidden) screens, great for keeping out the bugs on hot summer evenings.

Even in the wintertime, thermally-broken aluminum frames and an indoor fireplace keep this enviable hangout space warm. With floor-to-ceiling views like these, who wouldn’t want to chill here during all four seasons?

LOCATION: Valparaiso, Indiana

GC: Powers & Sons Construction
PRODUCTS SUPPLIED: LaCantina Doors, Centor Screens

We can’t help but be proud of this Lou Malnati’s location in Lincoln Square, Chicago. Taking full advantage of its corner location, John at Studio 222 Architects designed both an exterior patio and a four seasons flexspace that can quickly transform into additional outdoor seating with these awesome bifolding, thermally-controlled LaCantina Doors.

This project was even named “Best Commercial” in the 2018 nationwide “Best of LaCantina” contest!

Check out that gorgeous Ochre Buff brick from Interstate, too.

LOCATION: 4340 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
PRODUCT: LaCantina Doors, Interstate Brick

ARCHITECT: Studio 222
GC: Acme Builders
MASON: 5 Star Masonry
INSTALL: R&R Glass

McDonald’s Global HQ & Hamburger University, located at 1045 W. Randolph St / 110 N Carpenter, presented a unique challenge for the architects at Gensler Chicago.  The client asked for precast (for faster construction), but the building’s location in the midst of the Fulton Market Historic District meant the building also had to be Chicago Landmark compliant. High precision, high quality Röben thin brick was chosen, and the building was designed with nice detailing on the spandrels and corners.

This Röben brick, made in Germany, is a color called “Aarhus blau-bunt or “Blue Burnt” – an orangey brown hue with blue undertones.

Read more about this project on Dezeen
Project feature on Arch 2o

LOCATION: 110 N Carpenter, Chicago IL
PRODUCT: Röben

ARCHITECT: Gensler Chicago, IA Interior, O+A
INSTALL: International Concrete Products
GC: McHugh Construction
DEVELOPER: Sterling Bay

217-219 N Green Street is a single story building tucked among a clutch of warehouses, restaurants, condominiums, and work spaces. Making the building stand out required the use of unique masonry – in this case, super long, super thin bespoke S.Anselmo Italian bricks.

Read more about this project in the full case study, here.
Read more about this project on the architect’s website.

The Green Street location in Chicago’s West Loop won the Hospitality and Best In Show awards at the 2019 Illinois Chapter of the International Interior Design Association’s RED Awards.
Read more on the Interior Designer’s website.

Location: 217-219 N Green Street Chicago, IL 60607
Architect: Tom Nahabedian and Mig Rod – Bureau of Architecture & Design
General Contractor: LG Development
Mason: Gerry Brady – EnZ Masonry
Owner: Jeff Shapack – Shapack Partners
Brick: San Anselmo “CT001LOFS” Black (50cm Long Format with dragwire and rolled textures).

Northwestern Medicine‘s Kishwaukee Hospital in DeKalb, Illinois has been providing high-quality medical care to the north-central region of the state since 1975. Responding to steady growth in the area, the campus has added several modern buildings in the past decade that we’ve been delighted to work on!

In 2010, we helped the team at BSA LifeStructures pick out a gorgeous stone veneer for the facility’s new cancer center. Known as “Hudson Ledgestone,” this offering from NSVI is a popular mix of rustic, variously-sized stones in a mica-flecked color palette of warm greys, buffs, and browns.

When an accompanying health & wellness center was built nearby in 2017, we provided the same material for a design by Plunkett Raysich Architects The shared masonry visually harmonizes the two structures and compliments the sprawling, naturalistic landscaping. With over 16 acres of publicly-accessible fitness and recreation facilities, this is one we encourage you to check out the next time you’re in the area!

LOCATION: 1 Kish Hospital Dr, DeKalb, IL 60115

ARCHITECTS: BSA LifeStructures + Plunkett Raysich Architects
GC: Power Construction
MASON: Mike Cachey
PRODUCTS SUPPLIED: NSVI

The owner worked extensively with Rugo Raff Architects and Bricks Incorporated to design a studio space that would open up completely to the fruit trees, custom granite cobble patio, and green space situated between two 100 year old masonry homes.  The result was  “Zero Post” system which bifolds open to expansive views of the well kept garden area.  The owner is now able to design and fabricate in her studio with an immense amount of natural daylight whether the doors are in the open or closed position.

Location: Old Town, Chicago

Architect: Rugo Raff, Ltd.
Products Supplied:  LaCantina Doors & Reclaimed Granite Pavers

The General Contractor & owner was looking for a proper solution to his 15′ wide x 9′ tall opening on the rear elevation.  With a large roof deck, the owner wanted to create a large indoor/outdoor living space for his Chicago home.  It is a challenge to find usable outdoor space in an urban setting.  By using the bifolding door and screening system, the goal was met and allows the owner months of entertaining on the back patio.  Inside, take note of the screening system being integrated into the framing so as to hide it from view when in the open position.

A full write up about the project can be found here.

Location: Bucktown, Chicago

Architect: Hanna Architects
Products Supplied: Door Innovations – Mahogany 5 panel system, Centor Screening,  Hurd Windows, Interstate Brick “Ironstone,” Natural Stone Veneer International “Virginia Ledgestone”

Several years ago, we worked with architects Knauer Inc to select the perfect fenestration for this awesome Lake Forest dining destination.

Projects in the downtown area of this Northshore suburb have to meet strict appearance guidelines to fit with the historic character of the area. With that in mind, the designers specified these SDL (simulated divided light) windows with a split-finish of white aluminum on the exterior and a classic warm wood finish inside. Argon-filled glass helps keep the heat in during the winter, while the folding functionality lets the facade fold away in nicer weather.

Location: Market House on The Square – 655 Forest Avenue, Lake Forest, IL

Architect of Record: Knauer Inc
Products Supplied: Door Innovations

Check out this renovation of a single family masonry home with waterfront property on the Fox River!

The customer was able to open the entire elevation up and use the  bifolding mahogany door system to create a seamless transition from indoor living space to the outdoor pool deck area.

Location: Carpentersville, IL

Products Supplied: Door Innovations; screens by Centor

One of the many reasons we love LaCantina Doors  is for the wide array of potential applications. Whether you want windows, doors, or a dual-purpose system, they’ve got you covered!

Check out this awesome small-scale bifolding window job we did for Guildhall Restaurant in Glencoe, Illinois. The all-wood system was painted dark green to match the existing trim, and features Argon-filled glass to help protect indoor dining guests from the harsh temperatures of Chicago winters. Come summertime, the facade can open up to the busy sidewalk outside, drawing in passerby from the bustling commercial strip.

Location: Guildhall Restaurant & Bar – 694 Vernon, Glencoe, IL

Architect: Chicago Design Network

Products Supplied: LaCantina Doors

Otto Engineering : Carpentersville, IL – restoration of a historic building to include an addition and complete face lift!

Project Location: Otto Engineering, Carpentersville, IL

Architect of Record: Korte Architecture

Product featured: Reclaimed Chicago Common Brick.  The “Clay Buff” Chicago Common sourced was 100% reclaimed or recycled from a demolition project.  The Architect took special care to recreate the beautiful masonry dentil detailing at the parapet.

#reclaimed #brick

American Junkie is a new restaurant / night club in the popular River North district of Chicago.  The new name as of 2016 is “Fremont” and their website shows what they offer!

Project Location: 15 W Illinois – Chicago

Product line featured: LaCantina Doors

Notes: Measuring at roughly 50 feet wide and 10 feet tall, this 16 panel bifolding door / window system opens up the entire North elevation to the busy Illinois Street below.

Architect of Record: Myefski Architects

Featured link on Architect’ website: Project

Featured link on Architizer: Here

General Contractor: LG Development Group

Case Study about this project on LaCantina’s website: HERE

River North is lucky to have this long standing Restaurant. The Friedman Properties owned building is near a century old. The ownership planned and executed a complete gut + rehab of the space + building facade.  New operable storefront systems by @LaCantinaDoors and facade restoration were accomplished quickly the design and construction team.

Architect of Record: Lothan Van Hook Destefano

Product Line: LaCantina Doors

Notes: 2 bifolding door systems were added to the revitalized facade in order to draw in clients and offer an appealing atmosphere. #bifolding #lacantina #doors

Check out the new construction project we worked on back in 2015 with Quest Realty Group. Six LaCantina Doors systems were installed on the ground floor to allow the future restaurant a major advantage over other area eateries. Note the SDL (Simulated Divided Lite) bars requested by the customer to create the appearance of multiple lites per panel.  This was done to coordinate with the window products on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th floors of the building.

The fourth floor has a custom roof terrace with a 24′ wide LaCantina bifolding door system that features a full bar and beautiful look out point.  Inside the building, take a closer look and you’ll find the interiors are clad with reclaimed Chicago Common brick. A new building that feels like a 100 year old loft!

Today, the ground floor retail space is occupied by award-winning restaurant Monteverde, while the rooftop is an intimate indoor/outdoor event venue called Loft Lucia.

LOCATION: 1020 W Madison, Chicago IL

Client: Quest Realty Group
Architect of Record: Hanna Architects 
Products Supplied: Reclaimed Chicago Common Brick, LaCantina Doors

Aloft Hotel was designed by HOK, Chicago location and construction completed in 2013.  Situated at the Southeast corner of Clark & Grand, the building houses three hotel brands and a Lettuce Entertain You project named Beatrix Chicago. Bricks Incorporated worked with HOK and the design Architect for the restaurant; g2 design studios.  Products offered on this project where thin brick near the coffee bar and LaCantina Doors on the West elevation of the building.  The restaurant opens the bifolding doors during the warmer months in order to encourage people to come investigate the restaurant’s delectable  menu.  A case study offers more information: here.

Notes: @LaCantinaDoors line the entire West elevation of the new restaurant / hotel space. Stop by and try some new creations by the Chef and find out why #lettuceeats. The coffee bar is lined with #thinBrick and the exterior is clad with #faceBrick

Florian Architects of Chicago created a magnificent facade with special shapes from the Vermont Brick Company.  The waterstruck manufacturing technique and molded shapes allowed for over 27 different custom shapes on this single family home.  Water tables, scooped coves, radial pieces, and custom jack arches were only a few of the features incorporated into this beautiful home.  The General Contractor was Sylvester Construction Services, in the Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago.

Read our detailed case study about this project here!

Architect of Record: Florian Architects

General Contractor: Sylvester Construction Services, Inc

Brick manufacturer: Vermont Brick

Color: Bennington B&B

The Dobbins Group of Chicago designed and constructed this beautiful addition in the Summer of 2013.  TDG worked closely with Bricks Incorporated on the specification of the man-made stone, Hurd Window + Door products, and face brick.  A few images here during and after construction.

Architect & Builder: The Dobbins Group

Window Line: Hurd Window & Doors

Stone: Mountain Stone

Fireplace: FireRock

Notes: @HurdWindows executed a timely delivery and the GC was able to install the #doors and #windows rapidly. The school is now open for business. The #brick was installed along with #stone by talented EnZ Masonry. The @FireRock_Inc fireplace offers a warm, inviting atmosphere to students and staff in the new space.

This custom single family home in Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL utilized the “Silver Fox” reclaimed common brick from the Milwaukee area.  A combination of color, distressed edges, and reclaimed properties were of interest to the Owners of the new home.

Builder: Hewitt Horn

We were delighted to provide Röben thin brick in the “Westerwald” color to the Moody Bible Institute for the construction of their Chapman Center back in 2017. The contemporary red hue worked in harmony with the historic red brick found elsewhere on campus.

Read about the project on the architect’s website.
Read more on Berglund’s website.

Project Location: 858 N Wells Street, Chicago IL
Products supplied: Röben

Architect: Shive Hattery
GC: Berglund Construction
Install: Gate Precast + J&E Duff Masonry
Video: Prime 312

Suffice it to say… the transformation of this 100+ year old former printing factory into one of Chicago’s hottest brewpubs was downright REVOLUTIONARY! 😉 We were thrilled to work with Wrap Architecture to provide two awesome sets of bifolding windows to Revolution Brewing‘s Milwaukee Avenue restaurant.

The renovation and conversion of this space was an unbelievable undertaking, requiring a near-complete structural overhaul (check out thr gallery for a “before” picture). Architects Cheryl Noel and Ravi Ricker went above and beyond on the project, creating almost all of the interior details themselves from reclaimed materials. Peek in through the LaCantina  windows we supplied to open up the façade to the street… and you just might catch a glimpse of the blown glass and salvaged barrel light fixtures they made. Drop by sometime seasonable for a beer, enjoy the breeze flowing in, and say hello to one of our favorite-ever projects!

Read the Chicago Architect magazine feature here.

LOCATION: 2323 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

ARCHITECT: Wrap Architecture
PRODUCT SUPPLIED: LaCantina Doors