Saving History, Adding Homes: A Century-Old Humboldt Park Building Gets a Fresh Start
By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Humboldt Park ·
A piece of Humboldt Park history is getting a new lease on life. A three-story-plus-basement multi-unit residence at 1247 North California Avenue — a building dating back to the early 1900s — is set to be fully rehabilitated by its new owner, NXT Realty of North Center. The firm purchased the property in June 2025 for
The building had been boarded up in recent years, but the rehab will breathe new life into it — and then some. With architect Hector Castillo on record, the renovation will legalize two basement-level dwelling units in the six-unit building, bringing the total number of permitted homes to eight. That means more housing options right across the street from the Chicago Park District's sprawling 197-acre Humboldt Park and its lagoons, fieldhouse, sports fields, and historic boathouse.
It's a quiet but meaningful win for a neighborhood that values both its architectural roots and its need for quality housing. Preserving century-old buildings instead of tearing them down keeps Humboldt Park's distinct character intact while adding to the community's housing stock. Keep an eye on 1247 N. California Ave. — this one's worth watching.
Sources:
1. https://chicagoyimby.com/2026/04/1900s-multi-unit-building-in-humboldt-park-to-be-rehabbed.html