Really Quiet Neighbors

Architect Bill Bickford would like to turn Chicago's historic Three Arts Club into a columbarium, or building to house cremated remains. The former dormitory for women artists is revered by preservationists, but hasn't been in use since 2003.

1 minute read

November 3, 2009, 1:00 PM PST

By Alek Miller

"Once a 110-room dormitory for women artists, the landmark building could become a permanent home to the cremated remains of as many as 15,000 people. That plan, put forth by a group of investors led by Chicago architect Bill Bickford, is a novel one for a property revered by preservationists and once coveted by condominium and hotel developers - until the real estate market collapsed."

"A company controlled by Chicago developer Mark Hunt paid $13 million for the building in 2003 with the idea of converting it into a boutique hotel and social club. But that plan fizzled, and Mr. Hunt put the property back on the market."

Thanks to ArchNewsNow

FULL STORY: Dorms for the dead

Monday, November 2, 2009 in Chicago Business

Architecture History / Preservation Illinois Chicago

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