History In Vogue

The Robey’s restoration focused on keeping the original Art Deco details and materials. The exterior restoration repaired the building’s spandrels, buckling brick and buffed limestone panels. New windows replicate the look of the original panes. The parapet was meticulously rebuilt, the bronze cupola and lantern were restored and a two-story glass and cast-iron storefront was completely replicated.

Inside, the Robey adds a contemporary touch to a material palette that alludes to the late 1920s when the structure was constructed as an office building – including poured terrazzo counters and floors, repurposed wood and glass guest room doors, and painted millwork trim and cabinetry.

The original dark green marble, terra cotta floors and bronze elevator doors dominate The Robey’s lobby.

The lobby's revolving wood door was restored by its original Indiana-based manufacturer. Even the directory from the former office building was preserved.

At The Robey Hall, the restoration carefully retained the grit and grace of the original warehouse, including the neo-classical, terra cotta façade along Milwaukee Avenue.

The interior design maintains the unfinished look of its original warehouse function throughout its lobby and rooms. This is complemented with the use of industrial materials such as clear epoxy finished concrete floors, marine-grade plywood furniture, exposed ductwork and piping, and cement-board cladding. The building’s original concrete floors have been restored and the original concrete ceilings remain exposed throughout.

A roll-up garage door that once let in trucks has been replaced with a glass lobby entrance and windows were added to the northwest side of the brick exterior.