The Lawrence House: Historic Charm & Modern Lifestyle
The Lawrence House is a restored 1928 luxury apartment hotel in Uptown Chicago that combines Art Deco architecture with modern amenities. Here's what you need to know:
Key Details:
- Location: Northeast corner of Kenmore and Lawrence Avenue, Uptown Chicago
- Built: 1928 as a luxury apartment hotel
- Apartment Types: Studio, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom units
- Size Range: 298 to 1,213 square feet
- Transit: 0.4 miles from Argyle Red Line station
- Pet Policy: Up to 2 pets allowed, $25/month per pet
- Notable Features: 6,000-sq-ft fitness center, restored indoor pool, boxing ring, rooftop lounge
The building has been carefully restored to preserve its original skylight, mosaic pool tiling, and terrazzo flooring while adding modern conveniences like in-unit washers and dryers in every apartment.
The Lawrence House stands as a cornerstone of Uptown Chicago living since its construction in 1928. Originally built as a luxury apartment hotel, this Art Deco landmark has welcomed everyone from Aragon Ballroom musicians to Essanay film studio talent throughout its nearly century-long history.
Today's residents enjoy the best of both worlds: historic charm meets modern convenience. The building's original architectural features have been carefully restored, while new amenities like a co-working lobby, Larry's cocktail bar, and an on-site coffee shop create a vibrant community atmosphere.
Whether you're a urban professional seeking easy Red Line access or someone who appreciates unique architectural details, The Lawrence House offers a distinctive living experience in one of Chicago's most culturally rich neighborhoods.
Architectural Significance & Restoration Milestones
When you step into The Lawrence House, you're walking through nearly a century of carefully preserved history. The restoration team went to extraordinary lengths to maintain the building's authentic Art Deco character while updating it for modern living.
The crown jewel of the restoration is the original curved stained-glass skylight that bathes the lobby in natural light. This architectural masterpiece has been fully restored to its 1928 glory, creating a stunning focal point that sets the tone for the entire building. The geometric patterns and vibrant colors remind residents daily that they're living in a piece of Chicago history.
The mosaic pool tiling represents another restoration triumph. Each tile was carefully cleaned and restored, with missing pieces replaced to match the original 1920s design. The pool itself maintains its vintage charm while meeting all modern safety and filtration standards.
Perhaps most impressive are the terrazzo floors throughout the common areas. This durable flooring material, popular in the 1920s, has been polished to reveal its original luster. The intricate patterns and rich colors create a sophisticated atmosphere that perfectly complements the building's Art Deco heritage.
The Lawrence House in Uptown's Cultural Fabric
The Lawrence House has always been more than just a place to live—it's been a cultural hub in Uptown Chicago. During the golden age of entertainment, the building housed musicians who performed at the nearby Aragon Ballroom, one of Chicago's most famous music venues. These artists found the luxury apartment hotel to be the perfect home base for their creative endeavors.
The building also attracted talent from Essanay Studios, the silent film company that operated in Chicago during the early 20th century. The Lawrence House provided comfortable accommodations for actors, directors, and other film industry professionals who were creating some of the era's most memorable entertainment.
Today, that creative spirit lives on. The building continues to attract artists, professionals, and anyone who appreciates the intersection of history and modern urban living. The restored lobby serves as an informal gathering place where residents can work, socialize, or simply appreciate the architectural beauty that surrounds them.
Floor Plans & Transparent Pricing
Finding the perfect apartment at The Lawrence House means choosing from thoughtfully designed layouts that range from cozy micro-studios to spacious three-bedroom homes. Each unit has been carefully planned to maximize both the historic character of this 1928 building and the modern conveniences today's residents expect.
The size range spans from 298 to 1,213 square feet, giving you plenty of options whether you're a minimalist who loves urban living or someone who needs room to spread out. What makes every apartment special is how the original architectural details blend seamlessly with contemporary features like in-unit washers and dryers in every home.
One thing that sets The Lawrence House apart is the water-based air conditioning system. While it keeps your apartment perfectly cool during Chicago's hot summers, longtime residents have finded that adding a small dehumidifier makes the space even more comfortable during those sticky July days.
Versatile Layouts at The Lawrence House
The micro-studio apartments prove that great things come in small packages. These cleverly designed spaces feature high ceilings that make the room feel much larger than its square footage suggests. Many residents love how the compact layout encourages them to spend time in the building's amazing common areas like the co-working lobby.
Open-concept one-bedroom apartments offer the perfect sweet spot for many residents. The flowing layout connects your living and kitchen areas while keeping your bedroom as a private retreat. Large windows throughout flood the space with natural light and give you those coveted city views that make Chicago living so special.
Split-bedroom two-bedroom units work beautifully for roommates or anyone who needs a dedicated home office. The thoughtful layout ensures privacy while providing shared spaces for entertaining. Many residents have transformed that second bedroom into the perfect work-from-home setup, especially with the building's excellent internet infrastructure.
The roomy three-bedroom apartments give you space to truly make yourself at home. These larger units often feature separate dining areas and generous living spaces that can handle everything from quiet movie nights to hosting friends for dinner parties.
What's Included in the Rent
Your monthly rent at The Lawrence House open ups a lifestyle that feels more like living in a luxury resort than a typical apartment building. The 6,000-square-foot fitness center alone would cost you a premium gym membership elsewhere, and that's before you factor in the restored indoor pool and unique boxing ring.
The co-working lobby has become a favorite spot for remote workers who appreciate the change of scenery. Every table comes with built-in electrical outlets, making it easy to set up your laptop and get productive while enjoying the beautiful restored skylight overhead.
Pool access means you can swim laps or just relax by the water without leaving home. The original mosaic tiling has been lovingly restored, creating a stunning backdrop for your daily swim or weekend lounging.
The rooftop lounge offers breathtaking city views and works perfectly for both quiet mornings with your coffee and evening gatherings with friends. Plus, having Larry's cocktail bar and an on-site coffee shop means you never have to go far for your caffeine fix or evening drinks.
Move-In Costs & Special Fees
Planning your move to The Lawrence House involves the typical apartment hunting costs you'd expect anywhere in Chicago. You'll need to budget for application fees and administrative charges that cover the processing of your new lease.
Renters insurance is required, which actually works in your favor by protecting your belongings and providing liability coverage. Most residents find this gives them peace of mind, especially in a building with so many shared amenities.
Pet owners will love knowing that up to two pets are welcome for just $25 per month per pet. The building does have some breed restrictions, so it's worth checking during your application process to make sure your furry friend qualifies.
If you're planning to bring a car, parking passes are available for purchase. Given how challenging street parking can be in Uptown Chicago, many residents find the convenience worth every penny. And if you're more of a cyclist, the building offers secure bike storage to protect your ride while you're at home or work.
Amenities, Neighborhood & Lifestyle
Living at The Lawrence House feels more like staying at a luxury resort than renting an apartment. The building's amenities create countless opportunities to socialize, stay active, and enjoy life without ever leaving home.
The 6,000-square-foot fitness center is the crown jewel of the building's amenities. This isn't your typical apartment gym with a few treadmills—it's a full-scale facility that rivals premium health clubs. The restored indoor pool maintains its 1928 charm with original mosaic tiling, while the boxing ring offers a unique workout option that you won't find anywhere else in Uptown.
The rooftop deck provides stunning city views and becomes the heart of the building's social life during warmer months. Whether you're hosting friends for a barbecue or simply enjoying your morning coffee with a view, this space makes every day feel special.
Daily conveniences make life easier too. The communal kitchen gives you space to prepare larger meals or cook alongside neighbors, while bike storage keeps your wheels secure. The pet run means your furry friends can stretch their legs without leaving the building.
Community Spaces that Wow
The lobby at The Lawrence House transforms the typical apartment entrance into something extraordinary. Co-working tables equipped with lamps and electrical outlets create a productive workspace beneath the stunning original skylight. The natural light streaming through the restored stained glass makes even the most mundane tasks feel inspiring.
Larry's cocktail bar seamlessly blends into the lobby space, creating an old-timey atmosphere with vintage art and warm lighting. Modern geometric chandeliers complement the historic skylight above, bridging nearly a century of design evolution in one beautiful space.
Step outside to the fire-pit patio and you'll find day beds and conversation areas that extend the social atmosphere outdoors. The satellite patio bar ensures you never have to go far for refreshments, whether you're catching up with neighbors or entertaining guests.
Uptown Chicago Essentials
The Lawrence House sits in the heart of one of Chicago's most culturally rich neighborhoods. Live music venues like the historic Aragon Ballroom continue the area's entertainment legacy, while international eateries reflect Uptown's diverse community. The Argyle corridor offers some of the city's best Vietnamese, Thai, and Chinese restaurants.
The Argyle Red Line station sits just 0.4 miles away, connecting you to downtown Chicago in minutes. For those who prefer to stay local, three shopping centers within walking distance handle your daily needs.
Lakefront parks and the lakefront trail provide year-round recreation opportunities. Summer brings cycling and beach visits, while winter offers peaceful walks along Lake Michigan's shoreline. The trail system connects to parks throughout the city, giving you endless options for outdoor trips.
Truman College proximity adds to the neighborhood's educational atmosphere, with students and faculty contributing to Uptown's vibrant, diverse community. Loyola University and North Park University are also nearby, creating a college town feel within the big city.
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Comparing Lifestyle Perks
What sets The Lawrence House apart from other Uptown buildings isn't just one thing—it's the combination of historic character and modern convenience. While other buildings might offer basic fitness centers, few can match a 6,000-square-foot facility with a restored pool and boxing ring.
The on-site coffee shop and Larry's bar create a hotel-like experience that eliminates the need to venture out for your daily caffeine fix or evening social hour. This level of convenience, combined with the building's architectural significance, creates something truly special.
The pet-friendly policies welcome up to two pets per apartment, and the building has become home to some interesting residents over the years—including cats, dogs, and even a teacup pig. This flexibility reflects the building's welcoming, community-focused approach to urban living.
Most importantly, the building's co-working lobby addresses the modern reality of remote work in ways that traditional buildings simply don't. Having professional workspace available whenever you need it has proven invaluable for residents who want to separate work from their living space without leaving home.
Leasing Process, Policies & Resident Voices
Getting started at The Lawrence House is refreshingly simple. The online application process moves quickly, with most decisions coming back within 2-5 business days. In Chicago's fast-moving rental market, this speed can make the difference between landing your dream apartment and missing out.
Whether you prefer to tour virtually from your couch or experience the building in person, the leasing team accommodates both options. Virtual tours work well for getting a feel for the layouts, but nothing quite prepares you for the impact of walking under that restored Art Deco skylight for the first time.
Once you move in, daily life runs smoothly thanks to modern conveniences like security fob access and 24/7 security cameras. The building also offers remote lockout assistance around the clock—a lifesaver during those brutal Chicago winters when the last thing you want is to wait outside for help.
Maintenance requests get handled through an easy online portal, and residents consistently praise the quick response times. The FLATS life app makes paying rent simple, letting you handle everything from your phone while you're sipping coffee in Larry's bar downstairs.
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Pet-Friendly Living at The Lawrence House
The Lawrence House truly rolls out the red carpet for four-legged family members. The building allows up to two pets per apartment with a monthly pet rent of $25 per pet. While breed restrictions do apply, the community has shown remarkable flexibility—they're even home to a famous teacup pig alongside the usual cats and dogs.
The dedicated pet run gives dogs a safe space to exercise and make friends right in the building. For longer trips, several parks sit within a few miles, and the lakefront trail offers endless walking opportunities for both pets and their humans.
A grooming station on-site means you can clean up muddy paws before heading back to your apartment. It's these thoughtful touches that show how seriously The Lawrence House takes pet ownership as part of urban living.
Sustainability & Comfort Features
Environmental consciousness meets everyday convenience throughout The Lawrence House. Energy-efficient lighting keeps common areas bright while reducing electricity usage, and package lockers ensure your deliveries arrive safely while cutting down on multiple delivery attempts.
The water-based air conditioning system provides effective cooling with lower energy consumption than traditional systems. It's an innovative approach that works well, though residents have finded that adding a dehumidifier during Chicago's steamy summer months optimizes comfort levels.
These features aren't just good for the planet—they often translate to lower utility costs and fewer daily hassles for residents.
Resident Feedback & Pro Tips
The community at The Lawrence House consistently gives high marks to the staff team, with residents specifically praising Kayla, Daly, Nick, and Sean for their responsiveness and helpful attitudes. The building maintains a 3.8 out of 5 rating from resident reviews, with particular love for the community atmosphere and historic character.
Current residents offer valuable advice for newcomers. That water-based air conditioning works best when paired with a dehumidifier during humid periods. The building's historic construction means sound can travel between units, so being mindful of noise levels—especially in the evenings—keeps everyone happy.
Many residents suggest taking advantage of the communal spaces for entertaining. The rooftop lounge and lobby areas provide perfect venues for gatherings that might overwhelm individual apartments. The social events calendar helps neighbors connect and build genuine relationships, turning the building into a true community rather than just a place to sleep.
The consensus among residents? The Lawrence House offers something special—a blend of historic charm and modern convenience that's hard to find elsewhere in Uptown Chicago.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Lawrence House
How close is The Lawrence House to public transit?
The Lawrence House sits just 0.4 miles from the Argyle Red Line station, which makes your daily commute surprisingly convenient. That's about a 7-minute walk on a nice day, or an even quicker bike ride if you're feeling energetic.
The Red Line connection is particularly valuable because it gives you direct access to downtown Chicago without any transfers. Whether you're heading to the Loop for work or meeting friends in other neighborhoods, you can easily connect to other CTA lines throughout the city.
Many residents take advantage of the building's bike storage to cycle to the station. It's a perfect combination that lets you get a bit of exercise while still enjoying the convenience of public transit. The bike storage keeps your ride safe and secure, which is always a concern in the city.
Are utilities included in the monthly rent?
The Lawrence House operates on a system where residents handle their own utilities separately from rent. You'll need to set up and pay for electricity, water, gas, and internet services independently.
While this might seem like extra work initially, most residents appreciate the control it gives them. You can choose your preferred internet provider, manage your energy usage to keep costs down, and select service levels that match your lifestyle.
The building management team is always happy to help new residents steer the setup process. They can recommend reliable local providers and give you realistic estimates for monthly utility costs based on your apartment size. This transparency helps you budget accurately from day one.
What security measures protect residents and guests?
The Lawrence House takes resident safety seriously with multiple layers of protection. The building uses a fob access system that ensures only residents and their authorized guests can enter the building. This simple but effective system eliminates the worry of unauthorized visitors wandering the halls.
Security cameras operate around the clock throughout all common areas, providing continuous monitoring without being intrusive to daily life. The system covers lobbies, hallways, and outdoor spaces while respecting privacy in residential areas.
One feature that residents particularly love is the 24/7 remote lockout assistance. Getting locked out of your apartment is stressful enough without having to wait for help, especially during Chicago's brutal winter months. The on-site maintenance team can assist you any time of day or night.
The building's location in Uptown Chicago adds another layer of security through natural community activity. The area stays lively with college students, professionals, and cultural venue visitors, which means there's usually foot traffic and community awareness throughout the day and evening.
Conclusion
Living at The Lawrence House means becoming part of a story that began in 1928 and continues to unfold today. This isn't just another apartment building—it's a place where modern heritage meets everyday convenience in the heart of Uptown Chicago.
The magic happens in the details. You'll start each morning walking beneath that stunning restored skylight, maybe grabbing coffee from the on-site shop before settling into the co-working lobby. After work, you might hit the boxing ring for a unique workout, then unwind with neighbors at Larry's bar. It's resort-style living that feels both luxurious and genuinely welcoming.
The Lawrence House gives you the best of Chicago right outside your door. The Argyle Red Line station is just a few minutes away, connecting you to the entire city. Yet you'll find yourself spending more time in the neighborhood, finding international restaurants, catching shows at nearby venues, or simply enjoying the lakefront trail.
What makes this place special isn't just the beautiful terrazzo floors or the impressive fitness center—it's the community that's grown around these historic walls. From the teacup pig that calls this place home to the fire-pit gatherings on the rooftop, there's always something happening that reminds you why you chose to live here.
Whether you're drawn to the architectural beauty, the modern amenities, or simply the convenience of Uptown living, The Lawrence House offers something that's increasingly rare: a place that feels like home from day one.
Ready to experience it yourself? The combination of nearly a century of character with today's lifestyle needs creates something truly worth finding.
