McGuire Igleski & Associates
McGuire Igleski & Associates

Harriet F. Rees House Relocation

  • Featured
  • Preservation Architecture
  • Residential
  • Building Envelope

As part of the new McCormick Place Entertainment District Plan, the historic Harriet F. Rees House was relocated one city block to 2017 S. Prairie Avenue to ensure its preservation as a tangible representation of the architectural legacy and history of the Prairie Avenue District. The relocation of the 1,045-ton house and associated historic coach house is one of the heaviest residential buildings moved in the United States. McGuire Igleski worked to thoroughly document the structure and design details to replicate construction not moved to the new site, such as the basement, exterior stairs, and utility connections.

View the move

Photos: Wolfe House & Building Movers

Location

Chicago, Illinois

Client

Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority

Size

2,400 SF

Built in 1888, the Romanesque Revival style residence designed by the renowned architectural firm of Cobb & Frost is a Chicago Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Located just south of the Prairie Avenue District, once home to the Armour, Field, Kimball, and Pullman families, the Rees House is one of the last residences on the once fashionable Prairie Avenue that provides a sense of the street’s former character. The preservation of the historic residence is safeguarded through a Preservation Easement held by Landmarks Illinois.

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