Ware Malcomb announced construction has begun on 79 W. Monroe, Chicago’s first office-to-residential conversion under the City of Chicago’s ‘LaSalle Street Reimagined’ initiative and Major Johnson’s “Build Better Together”—a citywide strategy for inclusive economic growth.
Ware Malcomb is providing architecture and interior design services for the transformation of the historic 14-story masonry high-rise known as the Rector Building, located in The Loop of Downtown Chicago. The firm is working with developer R2 Companies and building owner Lagfin, to spearhead the project.
Built in 1905, 79 W. Monroe is the oldest surviving commercial structure designed by Chicago Architect Jarvis Hunt. The renovation project includes converting seven floors to create 117 residential units (with 41 units affordable), an upscale lobby, and a full indoor/outdoor amenity floor.
The project design for 79 W. Monroe is “Neoclassical Nautical,” combining the historical architecture, materials and details of this beaux-art building with the elegance of our beautiful beaches and maritime lifestyle on Lake Michigan, creating a refined, adventurous ambiance. The overall concept blends timeless beauty with the spirit of exploration.
On the ground floor, the renovated lobby along Monroe Street will feature a dedicated, refreshed entrance for residents only, enhancing security and accessibility. Rooftop amenities include a spacious indoor tenant lounge with gathering and meeting spaces, an upscale fitness center, and outdoor living areas. The lower level will feature generous bike storage, a dog wash station, and a contemporary gaming room.
Working within the building’s historic significance, Ware Malcomb included new architectural elements to compliment it, such as ornate details, motifs, historic ceilings, clad columns, and arched doorways. These elements emphasize a timeless elegance and proportion while maintaining the space’s history. Muted tones like navy and ivory, accented with gold, bronze, and warm wood tones, evoke delight and a maritime charm.
Preservation and building landmark efforts will focus on retaining and repairing the building’s character-defining exterior masonry, including brick, stone, and terra-cotta elements. To enhance energy efficiency and reduce costs for future tenants, the existing single-pane glass windows will be replaced with double-pane insulated glass, matching the existing profile as required by the local Historic Review Board. To ensure accuracy, the team is working closely with a specialized window fabricator experienced in historic window replacement.
Construction services are being provided by a joint venture of Leopardo Companies and GMA Construction Group.
