6345

This typical Chicago two-flat is in the process of recovery after many years of neglect. The building itself is a standard with some special details. Built in 1908, the original permit also includes projects at 6338 and 6340. All three buildings were built by the same builder. This two-flat is supported by wood beams. The façade features Indiana limestone in horizontal bands extending across from the window sills and lintels. Across the top, the parapet is decorated with brick as well as limestone. Bricks are used to create brackets below the limestone in the style of many wooden accents in earlier buildings. The front porch is wooden with Doric columns, wooden railings and a second floor balcony.

The glass and oak front door with sidelights opens into the beautiful vestibule. The wainscotting wall covering with oak trim is probably original and is in good condition. The floor is the most unusual part of the entrance. The octagonal ceramic tiles in several colors are arranged in a floral design like the center of a rug. The border is in a fret design.

The main entrance of the first floor is a narrow hallway which offers access to both the living room parlor and the dining room through two doorways. This hallway also offers access to the basement. Once you step into the living room, you can see the beautiful old pump organ which is in the hall. It dates from the turn-of-the-century and was made in Detroit, Michigan.

The living room opens into a formal dining room. Off the dining room is a bedroom/den. The back of the apartment features another bedroom and the kitchen with original pantry. A sketch of the proposed kitchen rehab is there to help you imagine how the current owner hopes to bring the kitchen into the 1990s.

The previous owner was quite elderly and was not able to care for the building. The natural gas service went out and all of the water pipes froze, burst and flooded the building. A quick fix and sale left the new owner with much work to attend to.

You may exit through the back door and see the beautiful flowers in the window boxes and the cozy back porch with table and chairs. Back to the front will take you through the gangway and the entrance to the undeveloped basement space.