Combining Two Chicago Condos to Increase Square Footage

You love your neighborhood. The view of the lake from your living room is unbeatable, and you have finally found the perfect coffee shop just around the corner. But as your family grows or your lifestyle changes, the walls can start to feel a little closer together. Moving to a single-family home in the suburbs might mean giving up the city life you adore. However, staying in your current unit might not be sustainable long-term.

There is a sophisticated solution that is becoming increasingly popular among homeowners in Lincoln Park, the Gold Coast, and Lakeview. Merging two adjacent condos allows you to double your square footage without sacrificing your location. This complex renovation transforms cramped quarters into a sprawling residence that rivals any single-family home. It gives you the canvas to create a custom living space tailored exactly to your needs.

Our designers can walk you through the possibilities of combining units. It is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning and a team of experts. From navigating condo board regulations to reimagining floor plans, there are many critical steps involved. Areté Renovators has the experience to guide you through this process. We ensure your vision becomes a reality while adding substantial value to your property.

The Advantages of Combining Units

The most obvious benefit of merging condos is the increase in living space. You gain the square footage of a suburban home while maintaining the convenience of city living. This extra room opens up a world of design possibilities that standard condo layouts simply cannot offer.

Customization is a major draw for our clients. When you combine units, you are essentially gutting the space and starting fresh. This allows you to:

• Create a massive master suite with dual walk-in closets.
• Design a chef’s kitchen that serves as the heart of the home.
• Add specialized rooms like a home office, gym, or wine cellar.
• Reconfigure the layout to maximize natural light and views.

There is also a strong financial argument for merging. In dense Chicago neighborhoods, large condos are rare. By creating a double unit, you are introducing a unique product to the market. This exclusivity can lead to a significant increase in property value. You are creating a luxury asset that stands out from the sea of standard two-bedroom units.

Legal and Board Requirements

Before you start tearing down walls, you must handle the legalities. Merging condos involves more than just construction permits. It requires navigating a web of regulations from your condo association and the City of Chicago.

Your first stop is the condo board. Every association has different rules regarding unit combinations. You will need to review the declaration and bylaws carefully. Some buildings embrace combinations as they increase the overall value of the building and reduce the number of residents using amenities. Others may be hesitant due to concerns about construction noise or structural integrity.

Our professionals can help you present your proposal to the board. We provide detailed plans that address potential concerns upfront. You will likely need to sign an alteration agreement. This document outlines the scope of work, insurance requirements, and your responsibility for any damages to common areas.

Zoning and city ordinances are another layer. In Chicago, you generally cannot just cut a door between two units and call it a day. You must legally combine the properties. This often involves:

• Dissolving the existing Property Identification Numbers (PINs).
• Obtaining a new PIN for the combined unit.
• Updating the percentage of ownership in the common elements.

Failure to address these legal steps can lead to complications when you eventually decide to sell. It creates a seamless transition from two legal entities into one cohesive home.

Understanding the Financial Implications

A project of this magnitude requires a clear understanding of the costs involved. The construction budget is only one piece of the puzzle. You must also account for architectural fees, structural engineering, permits, and legal expenses.

Financing a condo combination can be different from a standard mortgage. If you already own one unit and are buying the second, you might need a specialized loan product. Some lenders offer renovation loans that cover the purchase of the second unit and the construction costs. These loans are based on the projected value of the completed home.

Property taxes are another important consideration. When you merge two PINs into one, your tax bill will change. While it is often similar to the sum of the two previous bills, the assessment of the new, higher-value property could lead to an adjustment.

Monthly assessments will also continue. You will be responsible for the HOA fees of both original units. However, since you are reducing the density of the building, some boards may negotiate a slightly lower rate for the combined unit. It is worth discussing this during your initial meetings with the association.

Design and Renovation Challenges

Designing a combined unit is an exciting, creative challenge. You are not just decorating rooms. You are rethinking the flow of an entire home. Our architects and designers work with you to ensure the new layout feels intentional, not like two separate apartments patched together.

Structural elements often dictate the design. In high-rise buildings, you cannot move structural columns, plumbing stacks, or mechanical shafts. These fixed points become the puzzle pieces we work around.

• Plumbing Stacks: These usually determine where bathrooms and kitchens can be located. Moving a toilet or sink far from the stack is difficult and costly. We often design the layout to utilize existing wet walls.
• Electrical Systems: You will likely need to combine two electrical panels into one. This requires a licensed electrician to ensure the new system can handle the load of a larger home.
• HVAC: Combining units means rethinking climate control. You might need to integrate two separate systems or upgrade to a more powerful single unit.
• Flooring: One of the biggest challenges is leveling the floors. In older buildings, the concrete slabs of adjacent units might not be perfectly aligned. We use specialized techniques to ensure a smooth, continuous floor throughout the residence.

Choosing the right team is vital. You need a general contractor who understands the nuances of Chicago high-rise construction. At Areté Renovators, we specialize in these complex projects. We manage every detail, from the initial demolition to the final coat of paint.

Expert Advice for a Smooth Process

Success in merging condos comes down to preparation. Our experts recommend assembling your team before you even close on the second unit. Having an architect or designer walk through the space can help you identify potential deal-breakers early.

It is also wise to communicate with your neighbors. Construction in a multi-unit building affects everyone. We prioritize maintaining a clean and respectful job site. Keeping the lines of communication open can prevent complaints and keep the project moving forward smoothly.

Be prepared for the unexpected. When you open up walls in older Chicago buildings, you never know what you might find. We build a contingency into every budget to handle unforeseen structural or mechanical issues without derailing the project.

Creating Your Masterpiece

Merging two condos is a bold move that delivers incredible rewards. It allows you to stay in the neighborhood you love while enjoying the luxury of a custom-designed home. You get the space you need and the lifestyle you deserve.

Our team at Areté Renovators is dedicated to transforming your vision into reality. We bring years of experience in high-end Chicago renovations to every project. We handle the complexities of design, permitting, and construction so you can focus on the excitement of your new home.

Call us at 773.683.3033 or contact us today to discuss the potential of your space.