Aberdeen St Renovation Shows Deconversion Trend

A three-story building on Aberdeen Street in Bridgeport just got a $300,000 makeover — but not the kind you'd expect. Instead of adding units, the owner is deconverting from three apartments down to two.

This 12-day permit processing time reflects a broader trend in Chicago neighborhoods where contractor changes mid-project often signal ambitious scope changes. The Aberdeen project includes full basement rehab, new rear decks, stairs to all levels, and a detached two-car garage.

Why owners choose deconversion:

**More space per unit means higher rents.** Two well-appointed units often generate more income than three cramped ones, especially in gentrifying areas like Bridgeport.

**Easier management.** Fewer tenants mean fewer calls, less turnover, and simpler bookkeeping for small landlords.

**Building code compliance.** Older conversions sometimes lack proper egress or fire separation. Starting fresh with two units ensures everything meets current Chicago Building Department standards.

The project's architect John Hanna is using 2019 Chicago Building and Residential Code standards for the self-certification process, which speeds approval but requires professional oversight throughout construction.

With spring construction season in full swing, deconversion projects like this one show how Chicago property owners are adapting to market demands for larger, code-compliant units rather than maximizing unit count.