Tree arranged to have the original Tree building constructed in 1894, designed by the architecture firm of Parfitt Brothers. The building is constructed with steel frames and is three stories high. The ground level is covered in a cast iron arcade and designed as storefronts, while the second story is covered in a Roman brick and is designed to serve as artist studios with large windows to allow natural light to enter.[2]
Tree created a legal trust which stipulated that only artists could live in Tree Studios. This trust remained in force until 1959 when the complex was sold to the Medinah Temple, with which the studio complex shared a block.[2]
The studios and temple were included in the 2000 World Monuments Watch by the World Monuments Fund, after citizens became concerned that the complex would be demolished and a high rise tower constructed in its place. With support from the financial services company American Express WMF awarded a grant toward the preparation of an architectural significance survey and a feasibility study for the site. The results of the significance survey led to the sites being designated as Chicago landmarks.[7]
Restoration and historic landmark
Restoration of the property was guided by Albert Friedman,[8] who purchased the property in 2001, following which construction workers and artisans labored side-by-side, rebuilding Tree Studios by hand. Architectural details were re-created from surviving fragments in on-site woodworking shops.[9]
^ ab"Tree Studio Building". Chicago: A National Register of Historic Places Travel itinerary. National Park Services. Retrieved 2007-07-09.
^Schulman, Daniel. "Frances Badger". chicagomodern.org. Retrieved 3 December 2016.
^ ab"Tree Studios, Annexes, and Courtyard". Chicago Landmarks. City of Chicago Department of Planning and Development, Landmarks Division. 2003. Retrieved 2007-07-09.
