1522 59th Street

About this home

This top floor junior one bedroom in a courtyard building facing the Midway Plaisance packs a punch. Flanked by the University of Chicago campus and the newly opened Obama Center, the location is getting a lot of buzz. It's also super convenient, with immediate access to transportation. The Metra station is within two minutes' walking distance, just beyond the Divvy bike station, while the #6, #10 and #28 bus stop is one block east. A short stroll/5 minute bike ride takes one to historic Jackson Park and the lakefront bike trail. There is ample street parking, and a garage space may be available for rent in a nearby garage. The building, designed by Paul F. Olsen and built by Albert W. Swayne in a quirky "Mediterranean-Gothic" style, has all the hallmarks of '20s charm and efficiency. The compact interior features hardwood floors, picture frame molding, 9' ceilings, an eat-in kitchen, a workspace niche, built-in cedar wardrobe and storage, and a vintage bathroom with penny floor tile, subway wall tiles and a deep soaking bathtub. The unbeatable low assessment of $364 covers heat, cooking gas, property taxes, water, common insurance and exterior maintenance. For location, convenience and economy, it's a standout. Sorry, no investors. Sold as-is.