Logan Square’s Congress Theater Undergoing Restoration

After closing in 2013, a $55 million restoration of Congress Theater is underway with new ownership, an investment group led by Michael Moyer.

The Commission on Chicago Landmarks labeled the Congress one of the city’s most intact neighborhood movie palaces from the 1920s. The Logan Square theater once had more than 2,900 seats, which were removed years ago when it transitioned to a live music venue.

W.E. Oneil and Woodhouse Tinucci Architects have been hired for the restoration project, which will include renovation of the theater’s grand lobby, domed auditorium and its adjacent buildings. The Congress will house a small inn (with about 32 rooms), street-level retail and restaurants, and affordable housing units. Already a Chicago Landmark, the Congress is aiming to be included on the National Register of Historic Places. W.E. Oneil, a Chicago-based construction firm, also worked on the Chicago Theatre and Cadillac Palace Theatre.

In 2015, Moyer told the Chicago Tribune that he expected the theater to reopen in 2017, although a more recent timetable for the project is not available. Woodhouse Tinucci’s online portfolio says that restoration’s ” dynamic mix of new uses will reestablish The Congress as a vibrant community anchor on Milwaukee Avenue midway between Chicago’s Logan Square and Bucktown neighborhoods.”

Less than a block up the street at 2211 N Milwaukee Avenue, a brand-new apartment building will be opening this spring. With 120 units, L will offer residents high-end finishes, thoughtful floor plans, and  luxury amenities. The transit-oriented property  will also feature a massive bike room with extra spaces for bike maintenance and upkeep.

Starting this month, the Luxury Living Chicago team will be working on-site at L to lease these Logan Square apartments. To learn more about L, follow the link below and be the first to know when pricing and floor plans become available.