![Urban Sandbox / Miller Hull Partnership - Facade](https://images.adsttc.com/media/images/5013/4e01/28ba/0d0e/f000/0c4a/medium_jpg/stringio.jpg?1414591798)
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Architects: Miller Hull Partnership
- Area: 20000 ft²
- Year: 2009
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Photographs:Marty Peters
Text description provided by the architects. This 8 unit, 20,000 sf mixed use condominium project is located in the vibrant Bucktown district of Chicago. The project is the final phase of a full-block development, Urban Sandbox. The condominium units are a mix of 2 bedroom flats and 3 bedroom lofts. Penthouse units have roof access. A large commercial space fronts Wolcott Avenue and parking is accessed from the alley.
![Urban Sandbox / Miller Hull Partnership - Facade](https://images.adsttc.com/media/images/5013/4dfd/28ba/0d0e/f000/0c49/medium_jpg/stringio.jpg?1414591805)
One of the primary objectives on this project was to provide a high degree of transparency and a strong connection to the urban fabric without compromising a sense of privacy from the public street. LAYERING became the guiding concept and the deep south-facing decks above the street provide enough setback so that floor to ceiling glass doesn’t leave the occupant feeling exposed.
The project therefore, was conceived as a box overlaid with a steel and glass frame. Outdoor rooms bridge between the box and the frames, enlivening the façade. Frames define and render images. Frames by their nature create singular space- the place is interpreted by both the audience in the street and the building occupant (actor) within the frame. A COLLECTION OF FRAMES then reveals a multitude of interpretations.