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Like most North American cities, Chicago's street grid has a fairly predictable circulation system, defined by its rectangular blocks and right angles. That's why the six-point junction of Grand Avenue, Halsted Street, and Milwaukee Avenue in the Fulton River district evokes intrigue. Triangular lots occupy four of the corners, presenting a unique development opportunity for Akara Partners and CA Residential who are approaching completion on their Kenect project.
City Ambassador and Forum contributor harryc recently toured the 227-unit residential development as landscaping work continues to take shape around the complex, which consists of two buildings at 14 and four storeys in height. Pappageorge Haymes Partners performed architectural services on the project, creating a tower above a 97-stall parking garage that serves both buildings. The low-rise structure, primarily comprised of a wood frame, hugs the narrow portion of the property. The project is mere steps away from Grand station on the Blue Line, providing quick and easy access to Chicago's vibrant collage of neighbourhoods.
Entering the development, the main lobby emits a raw urban aesthetic of exposed concrete, wood furniture, and ceiling ductwork. This double-height space hosts several comfortable lounging nooks and a hefty steel and tile reception desk.
There's plenty more seating upstairs in the two-storey carpeted common room, which is again highlighted by its unfinished features, including lighting fixtures and a hanging labyrinth of piping. Floor-to-ceiling glass basks the billiards table and adjacent lounging areas in natural sunlight.
A television, kitchenette, and attached outdoor deck provide additional options for those looking to relax, cook, or soak in some rays. A metal staircase leads to an upper meeting room where residents can conduct casual work sessions.
A large fitness centre with cardio equipment and free weights, as well as television screens, is positioned beside an outdoor terrace replete with barbecue grills and a well-lit swimming pool. Planters scatter the space, which is sure to produce some striking views of the surrounding neighbourhood.
Studio, convertible, one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plan arrangements include nine-foot ceilings, Grohe plumbing fixtures, in-unit laundry, quartz kitchen and bath countertops, and stainless steel GE appliances. The raw appearance of the lobby and amenity areas is repeated here, matched by a tile backsplash that mimics the concrete finish.
The first tenants have begun moving into their new digs, with the pricier units at the top of the tower expected to welcome residents in the near future. Though it's not one of Chicago's mightier projects, Kenect takes advantage of its unique site boundaries by bringing a multifaceted complex with a commanding street presence to the intersection.
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