Back to In the Press Main BABCO CONSTRUCTION INC. COMPLETES RENOVATIONS FOR THE HISTORIC FISHER BUILDING CHICAGO ? Lawrence H. Goldman, President of Babco Construction, Inc. is pleased to announce that the firm has completed the historic restoration and renovations for the Fisher Building in downtown Chicago, Illinois. Constructed in 1896, the Fisher Building is located at 343 South Dearborn and is one of Chicago?s early skyscrapers. Babco Construction was contracted by developer 343 S. Dearborn II LLC (a venture by Chicago based Kenard Corporation and Detroit based Village Green) to convert the 21-story, historic office building into 184 luxury apartments. The property also features commercial space on the first two levels. Extensive interior and exterior renovations of the 224,424 square foot property were completed through the collaborative efforts of Babco Construction, design professionals led by Pappageorge/Haymes, John Eifler and Desman Associates, historic preservationists, the City of Chicago and the developers, led by Harold Lichterman and Village Green Residential Properties, Inc. ?The Fisher Building represents the legacy and heritage of the international design that exclusively belongs to the City of Chicago,? stated Lawrence Goldman of Babco Construction. ?While working on the Fisher project, we took great care to preserve the integrity of the original design and are pleased to have been a part of such a prestigious undertaking.? Designed to represent the Gothic cathedrals of Europe, the fa?ade of the Fisher Building is adorned with ornate gargoyles and other unique custom designs all made of terra cotta. In order to preserve the original architecture, more than 4000 pieces of terra cotta were replaced in the restoration. The renovation project also included the construction of a new marble staircase in the lobby, as well as replacement of the building?s mechanical, electrical and sprinkler systems. In addition, the elevators were modernized and the original woodwork and mosaic floors were restored. The 184 luxury rental apartments feature hardwood floors throughout the kitchen and living areas. Mahogany cabinets were installed in the kitchens and living rooms feature the original bay windows. Carpeting has been installed in the bedrooms and each bathroom has been designed to compliment the individual unit. The Fisher apartments offer both a contemporary and historic living environment in Chicago?s Loop. Commercial tenants occupy the building's first two floors. Headquartered in Evanston, Illinois, Babco Construction Inc. is a full-service general contracting and construction management firm. Founded in 1965, recent clients include Hermes, Tiffany & Co., Crate & Barrel, Hilton, Bally?s, as well as Hyatt Hotels, Harpo Studios for Oprah Winfrey and the Berto www.babcoinc.com. Back to In the Press Main