WHAT IS A COACH HOUSE CHICAGO - wiki

What is a Coach House in Chicago?

A coach house in Chicago, also known as a carriage house or laneway house, is a secondary dwelling located on the same property as a primary residence, typically in the backyard or accessed via an alley. These structures originally served as housing for carriages and horses, but have since been converted into living spaces.

Coach houses offer unique housing options in Chicago, providing homeowners with potential rental income or space for family members while preserving the city's historic architecture. Understanding their features and zoning regulations is key to appreciating their role in Chicago's urban landscape.

Historical Context of Chicago Coach Houses

Chicago's coach houses date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when horses and carriages were the primary mode of transportation. Wealthy homeowners built these structures to house their carriages, horses, and the staff who cared for them. As automobiles replaced horse-drawn vehicles, many coach houses were repurposed into garages, workshops, or apartments.

This historical context is documented by resources such as Wikipedia's article on Accessory Dwelling Units, which provides a broader overview of the trend of converting secondary structures into living spaces. gpa calculator chicago kent

Typical Features of a Chicago Coach House

Coach houses in Chicago come in various shapes and sizes, but they often share some common characteristics:

• Location: Usually situated behind the main house, accessible from an alleyway.
• Size: Generally smaller than the primary residence, ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand square feet.
• Architecture: May reflect the architectural style of the main house, but often with simpler design elements. lakeview hotels chicago
• Functionality: Converted into apartments, studios, or home offices.

Zoning and Regulations

The City of Chicago has specific zoning regulations that govern the construction and use of coach houses. These regulations address issues such as building height, setbacks, lot coverage, and parking requirements. Homeowners considering building or renovating a coach house should consult with the city's Department of Planning and Development to ensure compliance. packing service chicago

Recently, there have been moves to relax some zoning restrictions to encourage the development of more accessory dwelling units, including coach houses, to increase housing density and affordability.

Benefits of Owning a Chicago Coach House

Owning a coach house in Chicago can offer several advantages:

• Rental Income: Coach houses can be rented out to tenants, providing homeowners with a source of passive income.
• Guest Housing: They can serve as guest accommodations for visiting family and friends. star trek convention chicago
• Multi-Generational Living: Coach houses can provide housing for aging parents or adult children, allowing families to live close together while maintaining separate living spaces.
• Increased Property Value: Adding a coach house can increase the overall value of a property.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are coach houses legal in all parts of Chicago?

No, coach houses are subject to zoning regulations, and not all areas of Chicago permit their construction or use as separate dwellings. It's crucial to check local zoning ordinances.

Can I rent out my coach house on Airbnb?

Short-term rentals like Airbnb are subject to specific regulations in Chicago, which may restrict or prohibit renting out coach houses for short periods.

How much does it cost to build or renovate a coach house?

The cost can vary widely depending on the size, design, and materials used. It is important to get quotes from several contractors.

Do I need a permit to build or renovate a coach house?

Yes, you typically need permits from the City of Chicago to build or renovate a coach house. This includes building permits, electrical permits, and plumbing permits.

What are the property tax implications of having a coach house?

Adding a coach house may increase your property taxes, as it adds value to your property and may be assessed as a separate dwelling unit.

Summary

Chicago coach houses are unique historical structures that provide additional housing options and potential income for homeowners. Understanding their history, features, and zoning regulations is essential for anyone interested in owning or developing a coach house in the city.