Clybourn Point is developed on the edge of the changing Cabrini-Green low-income community. RADA is the architect as well as the developer and builder, fulfilling a dream of creating egalitarian urban living that is also sustainable (LEED Silver). The project led the way for a new, transformed community by planting the seed of renewal on a prominent corner of this neighborhood in revival.

The building geometry and massing fill a gap in the urban fabric, creating a bold silhouette on a major intersection and a new gateway to the changing district. The building comes to a point at the street corner, where a kinetic light announces its presence. At street level, large storefront windows attract pedestrian activity, providing a feeling of safety and vitality.

Rada creates a planning model for new ideas of urban living. In a six-unit building, located strategically close to downtown, the privileged top units would typically feature the dramatic skyline view, the biggest balconies and spaces. Rada’s democratic design gives all units the same floor plan size and program. Most importantly, she assures equal access to skyline views, green rooftop garden and photovoltaic cells – producing the electricity for the common areas lighting usage.

Awards and Recognitions:

  • “People + Projects,” AIA Chicago Architect Magazine, January/February 2010
  • 2009 LEED-NC Silver Certified, US Green Building Council
  • 2009 Green Good Design Award, Athenaeum Museum of Art and Architecture
  • 2008 Good Neighbor Award, Chicago Association of Realtors
  • “A Case Study: The term ECO+DESIGN was Coined by RADA Architects to Describe Commitment and Ideas,” Licensed Architect Magazine, 12.1, 2008
  • 2007 Solar and Wind Energy Rebate Program Grant, State of Illinois
  • “Case Study: Clybourn Point ECO+DESIGN,” Licensed Architect Magazine, 11.3, 2007
  • “Clybourn Point: Green is Looking Good…,” YoChicago.com, September 24, 2007
  • “Clybourn Point: ‘Green’ Building in Cabrini-Green,” YoChicago.com, February 15, 2007
  • First “Earth Day Chicago Sustainable Projects Airports Exhibit,” Chicago Department of Aviation, O’Hare Airport, 2007
  • GreenBean.com, August 5, 2006

Sign up

Join our email list to receive announcements from RADA Architects.