CHICAGO — A long-empty building in Albany Park is set to become a vibrant creative space after receiving a $1.2 million grant from the City of Chicago. The site, located at 3741–49 W. Lawrence Ave., will soon house the Workshop Arts Collaborative, a multi-use arts and community venue designed to support local artists, musicians, and creators.
Developer James Yelen, who has spent years embedded in Chicago’s underground music and arts scene, is leading the $2.4 million redevelopment. With the city grant covering half the cost, construction and renovation will transform the 6,600-square-foot, 104-year-old building into an accessible, plug-and-play space for creators of all kinds.
“We’re creating a space where someone can just walk in, plug in, and start making art,” said Yelen.
Inside the Workshop Arts Collaborative: What to Expect
The new facility will include:
- 12 to 14 soundproof rehearsal studios available for hourly or monthly rental
- A 2,200-square-foot flexible event space for performances, workshops, and gatherings
- A street-facing pop-up vendor area that will rotate local artists, food sellers, and community booths
- A retail section selling vintage music gear, artist supplies, and handmade goods
The rehearsal spaces will be equipped with backline gear like drums, mics, and amps, allowing musicians without their own equipment to still have professional-quality practice time. Yelen emphasized that affordability and access are core to the project’s mission.
A Boost for Albany Park’s Artist Community
Albany Park, one of Chicago’s most diverse neighborhoods, has long lacked accessible space for local creators. Yelen said the Collaborative is meant to fill that gap, especially for emerging artists, youth performers, and under-resourced musicians.
The project has been endorsed and supported by several local organizations:
- North River Commission, a community and economic development organization
- Elastic Arts, a Logan Square-based nonprofit performance space
- Bikes N’ Roses, a youth-run bike shop and training program
These groups are expected to use the venue for programming and engagement once it opens.
Zoning and Community Input Still Needed
Although the funding is secured, the project still requires a zoning change to allow for larger gatherings and commercial use. The proposal is currently under review by 33rd Ward Ald. Rossana Rodriguez-Sanchez’s office.
Yelen has initiated a community outreach process to ensure that local residents understand the scope of the project and can offer feedback before it moves to the zoning board.
Why This Matters: Equity in the Arts
This project is part of a broader initiative by the City of Chicago to invest in neighborhood-led cultural redevelopment. The Workshop Arts Collaborative was one of several recipients of community development grants aimed at transforming disused commercial spaces into active, resident-serving facilities.
“Too often, creative talent exists in neighborhoods without the space or resources to flourish. This project brings that opportunity right into the heart of Albany Park,” said a spokesperson for the North River Commission.
The space will also serve as an incubator for cultural expression, youth mentorship, and creative entrepreneurship.
Location and Building Background
The property at 3741–49 W. Lawrence Ave. had long been used as a tool and equipment supplier but had stood mostly unused in recent years. It is now being entirely renovated and reimagined.
- Total space: ~6,600 square feet
- Age: Built 104 years ago
- New use: Arts center, rehearsal studios, retail and vendor pop-ups, event venue
Community Reaction and Next Steps
So far, the project has generated enthusiasm from local artists and organizers who see it as a much-needed addition to the cultural infrastructure of the Northwest Side.
- Community outreach meetings are scheduled in the coming weeks
- Renovation timeline expected to begin late 2024, with a target opening in mid-2025
- Updates will be provided through [Workshop Arts Collaborative’s future online presence] (site not yet launched)
How do you think the Workshop Arts Collaborative will shape Albany Park’s creative future? Would you attend local performances or pop-up markets here? Let us know your thoughts.
