Construction is officially underway at 3310 N. Lincoln Avenue, where Mangan Builders has secured a full building permit for a new six-story, mixed-use development in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood. Designed by Jonathan Splitt Architects, the project will bring new housing and commercial space to a formerly underutilized site, with opportunities for a range of trades and subcontractors to contribute to a modern, urban build.
Demolition and Site Preparation
The development replaces the former Rexx Rugs buildings, which were cleared in spring 2024. Located just north of the Lincoln and School intersection, the irregularly shaped lot has been a design challenge and opportunity. The result is a smart, dog-legged structure that maximizes lot use and meets zoning constraints while maintaining strong aesthetics and functional design.
Urbanize Chicago reports that with Mangan Builders serving as both developer and general contractor, the team benefits from streamlined coordination, bringing cost savings and efficiency to the construction timeline.
Project Scope and Structure
The six-story structure will rise to 83 feet, featuring:
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1,500 square feet of ground-floor retail space
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24 residential units on the upper floors
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A shared rooftop deck
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7 enclosed vehicle parking spaces and 24 bike storage spaces
Notably, 5 of the 24 units will be designated affordable housing, supporting community inclusivity and eligibility for zoning bonuses. Residential layouts include:
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4 studios
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19 two-bedrooms
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1 three-bedroom
Targeted rents start at $1,050/month for studios, $1,480/month for two-bedroom units, and $1,920/month for the three-bedroom—a price point that reflects modern construction quality while aiming for broader accessibility.
Architectural Features and Labor Opportunities
The building’s exterior, shaped in response to the site’s angled footprint, integrates private balconies and modern cladding for visual interest. Workers involved in framing, exterior cladding, window installation, and roofing will be essential to achieving the high design standards set by Jonathan Splitt Architects.
Key labor and trade scopes include:
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Structural steel and concrete foundation work
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Framing and rough carpentry
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Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems
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Elevator installation (one per tower floor)
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Interior finishing, including millwork, tiling, and flooring
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LEED-conscious building envelope work for energy efficiency
Mangan Builders is expected to hire across multiple trades as construction ramps up,
Zoning and Site Considerations
A zoning variance approved by the Chicago Zoning Board of Appeals allowed a rear setback reduction from 30 feet to 7.21 feet on residential floors, enabling optimal site utilization. This approval paved the way for the final building permit and now clears the path for vertical construction.
The enclosed garage will be accessed from the alley, separating vehicular activity from the pedestrian-facing retail and residential entry on N. Lincoln.
Transportation Connectivity
The project benefits from strong transit access. Located just two blocks north of the bustling six-way intersection of Lincoln, Belmont, and Ashland Avenues, residents will enjoy:
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Proximity to CTA Route 9, X9, and 77 buses
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A two-block walk to the Paulina Brown Line station
Additional Nearby Construction
Mangan Builders is also planning another residential project nearby: the School Street Lofts at 1650 W. School Street. This five-story, 17-unit development is awaiting permit approval and has received similar zoning variances. This confirms Mangan’s growing presence in the area and their ongoing role in reshaping this part of Lakeview.
Timeline and Industry Impact
With demolition completed and permits in hand, Mangan Builders will begin immediate site work, including foundation excavation and utility connections. Subcontractors will soon be mobilized, and vertical framing is expected in the coming months.
The project offers opportunities for:
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Union and non-union contractors
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Local laborers and suppliers
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Sustainability consultants and envelope specialists
As demand for modern rental housing in walkable neighborhoods continues to rise, 3310 N. Lincoln is poised to serve as a case study in strategic infill development that leverages strong design, efficient site usage, and proximity to transit.
