Chicago weighs landmark status for John Vinci’s Lake View home

The Chicago Landmarks Commission is set to decide whether to recommend preliminary landmark status for the residence and studio of John Vinci, 89, at 3152 N. Cambridge Ave. The proposed designation would recognize both the home’s architecture and Vinci’s role in Chicago preservation. A recommendation would be an early step toward permanent status, which requires City Council action.

Built in 1893, the two-flat features a corner tower and arched windows. The proposed protection includes its exterior and a brick garage Vinci designed. He added a steel porch and steps in 2009; the designation materials also cover his restoration work on the house. “I think the house is worth it,” Vinci said, despite feeling embarrassed by the attention.

Vinci bought the property in 1969 and established his architecture firm there with Lawrence “Larry” Kenny. The firm worked to save and restore buildings by Louis Sullivan, Frank Lloyd Wright and other notable Chicago architects. The home also served as a gathering place for preservationists, including Richard Nickel, who helped launch Chicago’s preservation movement and died in 1972 while salvaging architectural materials from a building being demolished.

Historian Rich Cahan, who has researched the home’s archives, said its architectural details and Vinci’s work make it deserving of landmark status. If the commission approves a recommendation, the process would continue with a request for the City Council to grant permanent designation.