Location
1111 S Homan Ave, Chicago, IL, 60624
Client
Wheeler Kearns Architects
Sector
Civic & Institutional
Team
dbHMS, Enspect Engineering, Gary Lee Partners, IFF, Terra Engineering
The North Lawndale Employment Network (NLEN) is an employment advocacy center that provides transitional jobs for formerly incarcerated residents and those struggling to enter the workforce. As NLEN expanded, the non-profit purchased a former bank building to relocate all its programs under one roof.
Completed in 2021, the renovation enhanced the existing building with a new addition that celebrates NLEN’s diverse programming and offerings to the entire community. This expansion created a new home for NLEN’s Beelove Cafe, which welcomes patrons with honey-inspired drinks and pastries. Site improvements include a welcoming entrance plaza, stone paving and seating area, and a communal meeting space paired with an exterior peace garden.
Awards:
2022 AIA Illinois Greatest Impact Award for Project Construction value below $5 million
