Map Factory Lofts – 5235 N. Ravenswood (40 Units)
Traces of the long-ago livelihood of this Andersonville site are displayed in the lobby of the now converted loft residence that takes its place. The aptly named Map Factory Lofts is a reincarnation of an old map factory, built in the late 1800s. Aged examples of the building’s productions adorn the walls of the entry foyer, solidifying the lofts’ identity and illuminating its significant history.
The vine-covered two-story brick structure now has 40 loft units ranging in size from 1,000 to 1,500 square feet. Residents share the common roof deck, which affords an excellent view of the city and gorgeous sunsets in the western sky. The interior spaces have typical loft qualities, such as exposed brick, tall ceiling heights, visible overhead ductwork, and open layouts. The Map Factory residences are timber lofts, an extremely sought-after style of Chicago loft conversions. The heavy-duty timber ceilings, beams and structural support posts are part of the properties’ character and charm.
In addition to the distinct loft elements, some units are furnished with widely-popular amenities like hardwood floors, wood-burning fireplaces, built-in shelving, stainless steel kitchen appliances, granite counters, breakfast bars and islands, and trendy light fixtures. However, not all of the lofts have been upgraded so a number still have slightly outdated kitchens and bathrooms.
The duplex floor plans are bright, open and generally offer one-bedroom, one-bath layouts. Some have spiral staircases to the second level. The two-bedrooms in Map Factory Lofts are more of a single-story deal with soaring 14’ ceilings and custom skylights. Other luxury finishes found in certain units are walk-in closets, stained glass windows, mosaic tile backsplashes, top-of-the-line ranges, and marble bathrooms.
There is a large laundry facility in the building and secured gated parking on-site. Original maps from the factory decorate the sunny front lobby entrance, which contains an indoor oasis where tropical plants run wild. Map Factory Lofts is only three blocks from Andersonville’s bustling Clark Street dining district and is a straight shot north of the Ravenswood Metra station at Lawrence Avenue.
