For Chicago-based Local Eclectic's first storefront at 212 E. Ontario, Klasik Construction executed a comprehensive interior gut rehabilitation of a landmark 1885 mansion designed by Burling & Whitehouse. Working with BoND Design, the build-out features bespoke retail environments, event facilities, a customer cafe, and office space, preserving historical integrity while introducing modern amenities.
Klasik Construction was entrusted by Chicago-based jewelry brand Local Eclectic to transform a historically significant 1885 mansion at 212 E. Ontario Street into their flagship retail and business headquarters. This ambitious project involved a complete interior gut rehabilitation of the landmark Queen Anne and Romanesque-style building, originally designed by renowned architects Burling & Whitehouse and situated on land once belonging to Chicago's first mayor, William B. Ogden. Klasik Construction collaborated closely with Noam Dvir of New York-based BoND Design and Aneesha Dharwadker of Chicago Design Office to create an elevated and approachable environment for Local Eclectic's clientele and 20+ employees.
The reimagined space features uniquely designed retail rooms on the main floor, offering a playful and engaging shopping experience for Local Eclectic's curated jewelry collections. The second floor accommodates private event spaces and a catering kitchen, while the top floor houses the brand's business operations. A distinctive element is the first-floor lounge and cafe, designed with a speakeasy vibe and a wood-burning fireplace, offering a unique amenity for both events and daily customer engagement.
Klasik Construction's scope of work encompassed extensive demolition, precise framing, comprehensive MEP system upgrades, and the installation of high-end finishes throughout the interior. Recognizing the landmark status of the building, the exterior was carefully preserved, with the focus entirely on modernizing the interior while respecting its historical character. The project also involved navigating the complexities of working within a 150-year-old structure in a dense urban environment, requiring meticulous planning and coordination to address unforeseen conditions and minimize disruption.
The successful execution of the Local Eclectic flagship store underscores Klasik Construction's expertise in complex commercial renovations, our commitment to collaborative partnerships, and our ability to deliver exceptional results that align with a client's brand and vision. This project not only provides Local Eclectic with a stunning new flagship location but also adds a vibrant and historically enriched destination to the Streeterville neighborhood. The anticipated late 2025 opening will mark a significant milestone for the Chicago-based brand and a testament to Klasik Construction's dedication to bringing unique spaces to life.
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