The Belden-Stratford Earns Chicagoland Associated General Contractors’ (CAGC) 2023 Project of the Year Award for Renovation Excellence

The Belden-Stratford won the 2023 Project of the Year Award in the renovation over $10 million category, presented by the CAGC. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the project navigated extensive guidelines and an intensive review process. The result is a meticulous and faithful restoration that pays homage to the building’s rich history.

Throughout the renovation, B&A was committed to preserving the building’s character and heritage. Unveiling hidden treasures, such as the original gilding on the lobby ceiling, created many pivotal moments in the project. Despite the time-consuming nature of gaining approval through various channels, the discovery process presented valuable opportunities to add inimitable character to the project.

Noteworthy instances include the revelation that the original window frames were originally blue, prompting the order of new windows to align with the building’s original aesthetic. Similarly, uncovering the original plaster molding in one of the penthouses led to a strategic change to restore this historical detail.

Another standout achievement was the meticulous restoration of the gilding on the lobby ceiling. Discovered beneath layers of paint, the decision to dedicate resources to this delicate process resulted in a team of artisans investing nearly 1,000 hours in applying each gold leaf sheet by hand.

Restoring The Belden-Stratford’s historical luxury and charm, while navigating the challenges of modern construction, earned the project well-deserved recognition.