Plans are moving forward for a transformative mixed-use project along Chicago’s North Side lakefront, where developer Fern Hill is proposing to redevelop the Emanuel Congregation property at 5959 N. Sheridan Road. The project will include a new synagogue and a major residential component—one of several massing options being studied that could reshape the skyline of Edgewater. Designed by Eckenhoff Saunders, the proposal balances heritage, faith, and modern design while generating opportunities for the city’s construction trades.
A Vision for Renewal
The plan envisions demolishing the existing synagogue and rebuilding it in a new 16,000-square-foot facility situated at the southeast corner of the property, closer to the lake. This reimagined synagogue will include:
- A sanctuary & worship space
- Classrooms
- Social Halls
- Administrative Offices
- Underground parking level
The upper-level auto court will allow congregants direct access to the main floor, improving accessibility and traffic flow off West Thorndale Avenue.
Chicago Yimby reports that while the permanent synagogue is under construction, Fern Hill will build a temporary worship facility across the street at 5950 N. Sheridan to house the congregation during the redevelopment phase.
Synagogue Construction Design Details
The main floor of the new synagogue will host the sanctuary and social spaces in its southern section, with administrative and support functions to the north. The third floor will contain classrooms and smaller meeting rooms, ensuring the congregation’s educational and community programming continues uninterrupted. The steel-and-concrete structure will be clad with glass and warm stone materials, reflecting both modern and traditional architectural influences.
A subgrade parking deck will provide limited parking beneath the main structure, accessible through a single curb cut on Thorndale Avenue. The construction team will rely heavily on concrete formwork specialists, steel fabricators, and mechanical trades to complete the multi-level facility within the tight lakefront footprint.
Residential Redevelopment Concepts
In addition to the synagogue, Fern Hill is pursuing an extensive residential redevelopment plan across the combined east and west parcels, spanning more than two acres. Although final massing is yet to be determined, 16 conceptual studies have been produced by Eckenhoff Saunders, each exploring different arrangements for approximately 400,000 square feet of residential space, accommodating up to 400 apartments and roughly 150 parking spaces.
Proposed configurations include:
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Single-Tower Options: Standing up to 420 feet tall, oriented either east–west or north–south. These would provide sweeping lake views while maximizing sunlight penetration.
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Twin-Tower Options: Two towers of about 20 stories (200 feet) each, potentially creating a “gateway” effect along Sheridan Road.
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Three-Building Low-Rise Options: Approximately 120-foot-tall structures designed to reduce shadowing and maintain a human-scale streetscape.
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L-Shaped Courtyard Options: Integrating green roofs, terraces, and communal courtyards above the synagogue podium.
Each massing option balances views, shadow impact, and urban density while maintaining sensitivity to the surrounding lakefront context.
Jobs and Trades Involved
The scale and diversity of the 5959 N. Sheridan redevelopment will bring significant opportunities for construction workers across multiple disciplines. Expected trades and roles include:
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Site Preparation and Excavation Crews – managing demolition of the existing synagogue and earthworks for the new foundation
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Concrete and Structural Steel Workers – building foundations, columns, and framing for both the synagogue and residential towers
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Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Technicians – installing HVAC systems, lighting, plumbing risers, and fire protection
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Carpenters and Formwork Specialists – constructing temporary supports, frameworks, and finish details
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Masonry and Curtainwall Installers – handling exterior cladding and glass façades
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Roofing and Waterproofing Contractors – ensuring energy efficiency and moisture protection along the lakefront
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Elevator Technicians – managing multi-level access in both buildings
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Interior Finishers and Millwork Carpenters – completing unit interiors, cabinetry, and flooring
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Landscape and Hardscape Teams – designing the outdoor plazas, courtyards, and pedestrian pathways
Once approvals are secured, Fern Hill’s partnership with local labor organizations will ensure that union tradespeople play a leading role in the project’s delivery.
Urban and Community Benefits
The project will revitalize a key parcel of Edgewater’s lakefront, preserving a vital community institution while adding new housing and street-level vibrancy. The synagogue’s relocation closer to the lake enhances accessibility and strengthens the connection between worship spaces and natural surroundings. Meanwhile, the residential towers will inject density into a well-served transit corridor, aligning with Chicago’s long-term urban planning goals.
According to early feedback, Fern Hill plans to use proceeds from the residential component to finance construction of the new synagogue, ensuring the congregation benefits directly from the redevelopment.
Approvals and Next Steps
The development team is in the early stages of community engagement, with ongoing feedback sessions from residents and congregants to refine the design. Zoning changes from RS-1 to RM-6 will be required, along with City Council and aldermanic approval before any groundbreaking can begin. Once approved, construction could proceed in multiple phases over several years.
When complete, the project will deliver an architectural statement along Sheridan Road — merging faith, housing, and craftsmanship while providing steady employment opportunities for Chicago’s skilled trades.
