Unit 1B at 73 East Elm is a rare Maisonette set in a landmark McNally & Quinn pre-war high rise constructed in 1928 and positioned on one of the Gold Coast's most gracious tree-lined streets. This home's distinguished vintage character is evident in the original details preserved through a complete gut renovation completed in 2024: parquet hardwood floors original to the 1920, original wooden doors, including two sets of French doors, original hardware, arched ceilings and doorways, true plaster walls, and living room crown moldings executed by old-world craftsmen that a century of Chicago construction has not reproduced again in this form. The unit has not been occupied since the renovation was completed. Against that backdrop, the renovation introduced everything new. …
The Story
73 East Elm Street 1b
Unit 1B at 73 East Elm is a rare Maisonette set in a landmark McNally & Quinn pre-war high rise constructed in 1928 and positioned on one of the Gold Coast's most gracious tree-lined streets. This home's distinguished vintage character is evident in the original details preserved through a complete gut renovation completed in 2024: parquet hardwood floors original to the 1920, original wooden doors, including two sets of French doors, original hardware, arched ceilings and doorways, true plaster walls, and living room crown moldings executed by old-world craftsmen that a century of Chicago construction has not reproduced again in this form. The unit has not been occupied since the renovation was completed. Against that backdrop, the renovation introduced everything new. The kitchen features new marble countertops and handcrafted custom kitchen cabinetry with open upper-shelf design, thus preserving the room's original proportion and keeping the space visually open. A European-style gas range and full suite of appliances (unused since installation) complete this exquisite kitchen. The living and dining areas flow together across original parquet floors while the north-facing new windows overlooking Elm Street deliver the kind of steady, indirect light that architects and designers actively seek. Graciously sized, the primary bedroom enjoys multiple closet spaces and a brand-new full bath with bidet and marble surround. A second bedroom located off the kitchen can easily accommodate guests or serve as the perfect in-home office. The home was completely rewired during the renovation, and a new air conditioner was installed at that time. Living on the first floor carries its own advantages in a building of this scale: no elevator required, immediate access to the doorstaff just steps away, and a direct visual connection to the street showcasing the trees in summer and the quiet rhythm of the neighborhood through the seasons. Idyllically located in the heart of the Gold Coast, this home is just a half a block from Lake Michigan and Lake Shore Drive, half a block to the restaurants and night life on State Street, a few blocks from world class shopping on Oak Street and Michigan Avenue. Close to CTA buses and trains. Ogden Elementary. Lincoln Park High School.
