Pacesetter Gardens Historic District

Bookends to a Historic Development

Originally constructed in 1960, the Pacesetter Gardens Historic District restoration began in 2003 as an urban revitalization project by the Village of Riverdale, IL. The City’s effort for a new direction for the economically and physically distressed Pacesetter neighborhood resulted in the redevelopment of the historic Pacesetter townhomes and the design of two new mixed-use buildings, named Whistler Crossing. Between the two projects, over 80% of the units are designated affordable and 27% as fully accessible.

Harry J Quinn, housing advocate and developer, designed the townhomes in the minimalist living style popular in that era which exclude perceived superfluous rooms and functions, like halls and dining rooms. The townhome district was added to the National Register of Historic Places as part of the redevelopment efforts.

Farr Associates led the redevelopment of all 90 units, restoration of the grounds, and upgrading the mechanical systems to energy efficient options. The site includes twelve buildings, mainly configured in 8-unit blocks of two- and three-bedrooms. The tall front facades, low-sloped asymmetrical roofs, and pastel paint colors harken to the original design styles by Quinn. Each unit includes laundry, a back patio and garden, covered entrances, and separate mechanical systems.