In the late 70’s a few Chicago Real Estate developers and architects saw the potential for residential development of Printers Row lofts buildings. Proximity to the Loop, transportation, and the large windows that gave light to the printers in the early part of the century made for beautiful loft spaces in the last half of the century. Art Galleries, restaurants and even an urban mall at Dearborn Station opened in the area. Because of the vision of a few developers the architectural treasures of Printer’s Row were saved. (Gordon and Paulett, 2003)
Look below to find availability of an historic Printer’s Row loft.
Click here to view all Printers Row real estate for sale
The Donohue Building
711 S. Dearborn
Chicago, Il 60605
Folio Square
124 W. Polk
Chicago, Il 60605
Franklin Building
720 S. Dearborn
Chicago, IL 60605
Harrison Street Lofts
547 S. Clark
Chicago, Il 60605
The Manhattan Building
431 S. Dearborn
Chicago, IL 60605
Market Square Lofts
161 W. Harrison
Chicago, Il 60605
Paper Place Lofts
801 S. Wells
Chicago, ll 60605
Peterson Lofts
523 S. Plymouth
Chicago, IL 60605
Pope Building Lofts
633 S. Plymouth
Chicago, Il 60605
Printers Row Lofts
732 S. Financial Place
Chicago, IL 60605
The Rowe Building
714 S. Dearborn
Chicago, Il 60605
Transportation Building Lofts
600 S. Dearborn
Chicago, Il 60605
History of Printers Row
After the great Chicago Fire in 1870 the Printers Row district enjoyed the reputation as one of the most notorious vice districts in the nation. During the World’s Fair, books were published warning the tourists of this district, even supplying maps. The unintended effect of the warnings, were that they became guidebooks for those eager for more dangerous entertainment. In 1903 conditions became intolerable and the Mayor moved everyone out of the area. They did not leave, but went further south to 22nd and Wabash. It was at this time that the commercial printing houses and bookbinderies moved into this area. Some noteworthy printing companies of the era were, The Franklin Company and The Donahue Company, running full time to meet the needs for books, catalogues, business forms and advertisements.
Printers Row loft buildings were built to maximize floor space and large windows to provide an abundance light to the work areas. The businesses flourished for 60 years until the 1960’s. Then the industry began to change and the printing companies gradually abandoned Printers Row.
Christine Hancock, Broker Associate with Prudential Rubloff specializing in downtown Chicago Real Estate including The Gold Coast, South Loop, West Loop, Streeterville & Lincoln Park for over 10 years. Call/Email Me today at 312-296-9300, or visit my website at DowntownChicagoRealEstate.com
Reference
Gordon, R. and Paulett, J. (2003). Images of America Printers Row Chicago. Great Britian: Arcadia Publishing.
