Saving History, Adding Homes: A Century-Old Humboldt Park Building Gets a Fresh Start
By Socialhood News · 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 $1.13 million, and after months of planning, the full renovation permit was officially approved on April 23, with a reported construction cost of $246,000.
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