40 Kansas
Frankfort, IL
40 Kansas is a mixed-use commercial and business structure that draws on old world brick craftsmanship to revitalize downtown Frankfort, Ill. A turn-of-the-century German immigrant farming community, Frankfort exhibits a quaint hometown atmosphere to this day. The site was home to a well-known German restaurant until a fire destroyed it in recent years. The design solution for 40 Kansas achieved a number of the project’s goals: to complement the existing architecture of the neighborhood; to create a structure that provides excellent exposure for a destination restaurant; and to utilize fire resistant materials. A variety of brick masonry period elevations comprise the two street facades. The architects researched traditional details in brick—including quoins, corbels, basket weaves and projected soldiers—to give a sense of authenticity to the project. Careful attention was paid to the brick selections so that they could stand alone, yet work with the structure as a whole. Kansas Silverdale limestone accents in a variety of finishes strengthens the structure’s theme. Touches such as projected balconies over the sidewalks and artistic stone sign panels further enhance the design.