Wood Street Urban Farm Expansion
This extension and transformation of Growing Home’s existing facilities on Chicago’s South Side employ a carbon smart palette that is locally sourced, providing the non-profit organization with healthy interiors that feature no-toxicity finishes that require little maintenance. Backed by a $5 million grant from Chicago’s 2024 Community Development Grants, the 76,784-square-feet USDA-certified produce processing facility will incorporate a retail store, café, teaching and commercial kitchen, and community classrooms.
The full block site abuts the future Englewood Elevated Nature Trail on its north side. By locating the new two-story polycarbonate and metal panel building along the west edge of the site, the east half of the block accommodates planting beds, greenhouses, and on-site parking.
The public facing facilities include a farm store and café on the first floor. Education facilities include a big commercial kitchen and a teaching kitchen with a classroom on the ground floor and two classrooms, demonstration garden, indoor growing space, and a computer room on the second floor. Other amenities include offices, conference space, and an event space.