Robinson House Renovation

Urbana, Illinois

In 1974, Jack Sherman Baker, FAIA, designed this striking residence for Gertrude “GiGi” Robinson, a sociology professor at the University of Illinois. The house features three unique units – a studio apartment and guest bedroom on the ground floor, and a large, light filled dwelling unit on the second floor. Unfortunately, years of neglect have taken their toll on the exterior envelope and grounds.

The objective of this phase was to revitalize the exterior with new cladding, resolve structural problems, and restore and upgrade interior finishes and details. These new elements are introduced with sensitivity for the existing design, maintaining and enhancing the concepts powerfully executed in the original design.

Commissioned Project: 2015

Renovation Completed: 2018

Design Associate: David Emmons

Project Manager: Mike Hoch

General Contractor: Doug Taylor

Recognition:

Heritage Award, Preservation and Conservation Association (PACA) of Champaign County, 2017

News Feature, Well De⎼er, Preserved. The News-Gazette, Champaign, March 9, 2017

News Feature, Eccentric 1970s house designed by longtime U of I professor sold, Crains Chicago Business," August 16, 2021