John Martin Companies provided design-build construction services for major exterior improvements at a historic residential loft building in Chicago.

The project involved two primary scopes: installation of a new TPO roofing system across the building and structural reconstruction of a deteriorated masonry façade at the fifth floor. The building remained fully occupied during construction, requiring careful coordination to maintain safe living conditions for residents.

One of the most complex aspects of the project involved temporarily removing and relocating rooftop HVAC and electrical systems to allow the roof replacement to proceed. Structural shoring and careful protection measures were also required to rebuild the load-bearing masonry wall while preserving valuable artwork located within the unit.

JMC successfully delivered the project while maintaining building operations and protecting both residents and property.

Shoring up the roof system throughout an entire unit condo unit roofing system with a detailed engineering support system, so as to remove the load bearing exterior masonry wall and associated windows presented many obstacles. Mainly, the condo was also the home of a $15M+ art collection that could not be relocated! The art installations were carefully protected and maintained through the project by a professional handling team, and the façade was rebuilt to match the original 1800’s construction aesthetics and new windows were installed. As you can imagine, remove the exterior wall of a home presents the opportunity for intrusion of rain, wind and snow elements that required careful attention to detail in maintaining a controlled environment for this client. JMC was happy to deliver this project on time and on budget while protecting all of the condo’s inhabitants, as well as their valuable art installations!