Centrum Properties

One of the best known and highly respected Chicago real estate developers is Centrum Properties. The company was created in 1980 and has built a well-earned reputation for designing and constructing high quality town homes and condominiums. At first only concentrating their real estate development projects in Chicago, Centrum Properties is responsible for the construction of such properties there including Churchill Row, Dearborn Mews, Olympia Lofts and Ashbury Woods in Lake Forest, to name a few. They have since expanded their development projects to other locations across the U.S., such as San Francisco, Washington D.C., Miami, Orlando, Boston, Manhattan, St. Louis and Kansas City.

With a very strong emphasis on community and close attention to detail, Centrum has nearly perfected the development of mixed use properties. Incorporating both residential and retail buildings within their buildings has created unique homes where residents find accommodations for almost every aspect of their lifestyle needs, in prime city locations and at competitive pricing.

The Fairbanks at CityFront Plaza is an example of Centrum's work. It was designed by architect DeStefano and Partners.

• Bedrooms: 1, 2, 3
• Baths: 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3
• Price range: from $300,000 to $2 million

Located at 240 East Illinois Street in Chicago, this development has Michigan Avenue to the west, offering easy assess to the merchants, fashion designers, culture and arts that are some of Chicago's finest points. Lake Michigan lies to the east, waiting for residents of the Fairbanks to enjoy the beach and waterfront activities.

The three structures that make up CityFront Plaza are a combination of both residential and commercial units. This mix provides a wealth of services to residents without having to leave the community. The 9th floor contains the Sky Deck, which houses complete, fully equipped exercise rooms, swimming pools, gardens, an outdoor cafe and many other extras. The lobby is attended by a 24 hour doorman. Indoor parking is provided, along with laundry, maid and concierge service. A dog area is available for residents and also storage for bicycles or other sporting equipment.

Ceiling heights of 9 to10 feet with floor to ceiling windows give a stunning view of the surrounding area. Hardwood floors and carpeted bedrooms are a standard with marble tile in the baths and a luxurious tub plus shower. Kitchens are set up with stainless steel appliances made by KitchenAid and a choice of color is available for the granite counter tops. Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and sprinkler systems all enhance safety at the Fairbanks.

The Lofts at Roosevelt Collection comprise another of Centrum's developments in Chicago.

• Bedrooms: 1
• Baths: 1
• Square feet: 759 (balcony 77 square feet)
• Price range: from $300,000

From The Lofts at Roosevelt, residents will have a host of entertainment and recreation just beyond the front doors. The development complex features a multiplex theater and a three acre park intended for scheduled events such as farmer's markets and music concerts and art shows. The Shops at Roosevelt will offer a choice of almost 50 different retail outlets, health care offices for optometry and health food, exercise facilities and a spa. Life at the Lofts is the epitome of comfort and convenience. Located at 150 West Roosevelt.

The Residences of Bradley Place 2 consist of beautifully designed family homes located within the stately St. Ben's neighborhood and Alexander Graham Bell schools.

• Bedrooms: 5
• Baths: 3.5
• Square feet: 4,600
• Price Range: from $900,000

These sensational homes are designed with quality and comfort in mind @ W Addison St. & N Campbell Ave. With 9 foot ceilings, even in the basement, residents will enjoy a spacious feel. The floor plans include oak stairs, an amazing five bedrooms, three and one half baths, kitchen, breakfast nook, dining room, living room with fireplace and family room. A three car garage is standard, as is the brick front and professionally landscaped, oversized 31' by 127' lot.

Centrum Properties has been sculpting communities in Chicago, not just constructing houses. It's more than real estate to Centrum, it's about providing a way of life for residents of its condos and town houses. Their reputation is built upon the excellent quality of their homes.