Chicago-based CEDARst Companies unveiled The Ardus, named in tribute to the original Bogardus Company housed on the location in the 1920s. The historic building at 676 N. LaSalle Street was built in 1925 and renovated in 1972. This latest restoration added new construction on an adjacent parking lot.
“We are humbled to carry forward this building’s rich legacy into the next generation,” said Alex Samoylovich, CEDARst founder. “The Ardus pays homage to its proud beginnings while providing hundreds of contemporary Chicagoans with amenity-rich city living.”
Building amenities include a roof deck with unobstructed city views, a dog run, fire pit, grill and seating. Bike and garage parking also are available while a lounge features kitchen, movie screening area and pool table. A fitness center with class space and a community lobby with a Heritage Outpost are also on the property and in the near future, a bicycle repair shop.
The project features 149 apartments—a mix of studios, one-bedrooms and three-bedroom duplexes, which boast private patios. Interiors pay homage to both the new and old structures with different, complementary features and finishes. The refurbished structure features concrete floors and an exposed original deck. The new building includes hardwood floors and an exposed cast-in-place deck for a clean concrete aesthetic. Both showcase floor-to-ceiling windows, custom cabinetry, stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops.
The design started with a green wall feature in the roof lounge. Since the building is a literal mix of old and new construction, Heather Fritz, creative and marketing director for CEDARst Companies, credits that as her jumping point when starting this project. “I wanted to play up natural elements in the color palette and furniture selection; we have lots of warm neutrals with rich blacks and plants,” Fritz said. “I selected artwork to play up the nature side as I figure if you live in the city, it doesn’t have to be part of your home.”
