Chicago’s pre-war homes are beloved for their craftsmanship, intricate moldings, and cozy rooms that whisper stories of the past. Yet, as open-concept living continues to dominate modern design trends, homeowners often envision knocking down walls to create airy, connected spaces. While this approach works seamlessly in newer builds, older Chicago homes — particularly those in historic neighborhoods like Lincoln Park or Andersonville — present unique challenges.
At 123 Remodeling, we’ve navigated these complexities, balancing contemporary desires with the realities of vintage architecture. Here’s why your open-concept vision may require careful rethinking—and smart solutions.
The Hidden Role of Load-Bearing Walls

Pre-war Chicago homes were constructed with a labyrinth of load-bearing walls that stabilize the structure. Unlike modern timber-frame builds, these walls often support multiple floors, roof systems, or even neighboring units in row houses. Removing one without proper reinforcement can jeopardize the entire building. For example, a dining room wall in a 1920s Craftsman bungalow might secretly anchor the second-floor joists. Before swinging a sledgehammer, a structural engineer must map the home’s “skeleton” to identify which walls are truly expendable.
Expert Tip: “Many homeowners assume plaster walls are non-load-bearing due to their age, but that’s rarely the case. Look for walls aligned with basement support beams or those that span the home’s full height. Steel I-beams or concealed columns can replace them, but this requires precise engineering to avoid sagging floors upstairs.”
HVAC Adjustments: More Than Just Ductwork
Older HVAC systems were designed for smaller, enclosed rooms, ensuring even heating and cooling. When walls vanish, airflow dynamics shift dramatically. A once-efficient radiator might now leave your new combined living-kitchen area drafty, while historic ductwork could struggle to reach a suddenly expansive space. Solutions often involve reconfiguring duct runs, adding vents, or installing supplementary systems like mini-split units. In some cases, radiators must be relocated—a task that demands plumbing expertise to avoid leaks or pressure imbalances.
Expert Tip: “Upgrading to a zoned HVAC system lets you control temperatures in open areas without overhauling the entire setup. But start these conversations early. Retrofitting ducts into century-old floors or ceilings can be invasive, so align HVAC plans with your structural redesign.”
Preserving Original Charm While Modernizing

The allure of pre-war homes lies in their details: pocket doors with glass knobs, coffered ceilings, or hand-carved fireplace surrounds. Aggressively opening up spaces can erase these irreplaceable features. Instead of a wholesale demolition, consider partial solutions. For instance, widening a doorway with a graceful arch honors the home’s character while improving flow. Repurposing an original built-in hutch as a room divider maintains nostalgia while carving out functional zones.
Expert Tip: “If you’re removing a wall with historic trim, salvage and reuse the molding elsewhere. Matching new millwork to vintage profiles is possible, but it’s costly. Better to design around what you can’t replace—like a stained-glass transom or quarter-sawn oak floors.”
Unseen Obstacles: Permits, Codes, and Unexpected Costs
Chicago’s historic districts, such as Old Town or Prairie Avenue, enforce strict preservation guidelines. Even outside these zones, modifying a pre-1940s home may trigger complex permitting processes. Structural changes often require stamped engineering plans, and HVAC alterations might need separate inspections. Budgets should also account for surprises like knob-and-tube wiring hidden inside walls or crumbling brick behind plaster. Projects in older homes frequently run up to 20% over initial estimates due to these unknowns.
Expert Tip: “Always factor in 10–15% of your budget for contingencies. For historic homes, partner with a contractor experienced in local preservation standards—they’ll know how to negotiate permits efficiently and spot red flags during exploratory demolition.”
Rethinking the Open Concept
If a fully open layout feels too risky, hybrid designs offer compromise. A cased opening between the kitchen and dining room maintains separation without full enclosure. Installing glass-paneled interior windows or pass-throughs invites light and connection while retaining walls. Even strategic furniture placement can create the illusion of space without altering the structure.
Transforming an older Chicago home requires respecting its history while adapting it for modern life. At 123 Remodeling, we approach these projects with a sculptor’s precision — carefully removing where necessary, reinforcing where vital, and always celebrating the home’s original soul. If you’re dreaming of open spaces but wary of the hurdles, reach out to our team. We’ll help you navigate load-bearing walls, and heritage details to craft a remodel that feels both timeless and tailored.
Ready to explore your home’s potential? Call 123 Remodeling at (773) 685-6095 or use a contact form, to get a free design-build consultation.