As infill construction continues to reshape Chicago’s established neighborhoods, a new residential project is moving forward at 2724 North Lehmann Court in Lincoln Park. The development reflects a broader trend toward compact, transit-oriented housing that maximizes limited urban parcels while responding to evolving zoning and mobility priorities.
Located just south of West Diversey Parkway, the narrow site previously housed a three-storey residential building. A demolition permit for that structure was issued late last year, clearing the way for redevelopment once removal work is complete. With demolition nearing completion, the development team is preparing to advance construction plans for a modern, mid-rise residential building designed to fit within the surrounding urban fabric.
The project is being led by Contemporary Concepts, a developer with growing activity in the Lincoln Park area. The firm is also behind the nearby residential conversion of the Leon Hotel and is active in a corridor that is seeing renewed investment and adaptive reuse. The Lehmann Court site sits just behind the planned redevelopment of the Inn at Lincoln Park, which is being undertaken by a separate development team.
Chicago Yimby reports that the architectural design for the project is being provided by Studio Dwell Architects, a local firm known for contemporary urban residential work. The site’s slim dimensions present unique design and construction challenges, requiring efficient layouts, careful sequencing, and close coordination between trades during construction.
Once completed, the building will rise five stories in height. The massing reflects a balance between maximizing allowable density and maintaining compatibility with neighboring residential structures. Exterior materials will consist primarily of gray brick, complemented by black metal accents that add visual contrast and a modern edge to the façade.
This restrained palette is intended to blend with the surrounding streetscape while still providing a distinct architectural identity. Brick construction remains a popular choice for Lincoln Park infill projects due to its durability, long lifecycle, and alignment with the neighborhood’s historic masonry character.
The five-story building will deliver a total of 19 residential units. The unit mix includes nine one-bedroom suites and 10 two-bedroom suites, targeting renters or owners seeking smaller household configurations in a highly walkable neighborhood.
The ground floor will include a small residential lobby and several dwelling units, while the upper floors will house the remainder of the apartments. Due to the site’s limited footprint, most units will not include private outdoor space. Instead, residents will have access to a shared rooftop deck, offering communal outdoor amenity space without increasing building mass or encroaching on setbacks.
Shared rooftop amenities have become increasingly common in urban infill developments, allowing developers to provide outdoor space efficiently while simplifying waterproofing and structural requirements compared to multiple private balconies.
Notably, the project does not include on-site vehicle parking. Aside from a bike room located along the street frontage, no parking spaces are planned. This approach reflects shifting transportation patterns in dense neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, where access to transit, walkability, and cycling infrastructure can reduce reliance on personal vehicles.
Because of its relatively modest size and infill nature, the project will not require a full planned development approval. However, select zoning variances will be needed, including relief from parking requirements. A community meeting is expected to be held to review the proposal and gather feedback, although a specific timeline has not yet been announced.
From a construction standpoint, the absence of underground parking simplifies excavation and foundation work, reducing both cost and schedule complexity. This allows resources to be focused on vertical construction and envelope detailing.
The project will begin with full demolition of the existing structure, followed by site preparation and foundation work suited to a narrow urban lot. Structural systems are expected to include conventional concrete foundations with masonry and structural framing above.
Given the tight site conditions, construction logistics will require careful planning around material staging, deliveries, and neighborhood access. Projects of this scale often rely on just-in-time deliveries and close coordination between the general contractor and subcontractors to minimize disruption and maintain schedule.
The Lehmann Court development is expected to engage a range of construction trades, including:
Demolition and site clearing contractors
Excavation and foundation specialists
Concrete forming and placing crews
Structural framing trades
Masonry contractors for brick façade installation
Miscellaneous metals and architectural steel installers
Roofing and waterproofing trades
Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing contractors
Elevator installation contractors, if required
Interior finishes, drywall, and millwork trades
Landscaping and rooftop deck specialists
As approval processes move forward and demolition wraps up, the 2724 North Lehmann Court project represents another example of how small-scale infill can contribute meaningful housing supply in established neighborhoods. By prioritizing efficient design, shared amenities, and reduced parking dependency, the project aligns with broader urban development goals shaping Chicago.
While modest in size, developments like this play an important role in maintaining housing diversity and supporting construction activity within the city’s most sought-after areas.