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Boystown Condo Remodel Open Layout LGBT Neighborhood Chicago — 854 W Cornelia 1BR to 2BR Conversion 2026
This 854 W Cornelia Avenue Boystown condo remodel is a textbook investment renovation: a strategic bedroom conversion that fundamentally repositions the property in Chicago's rental market. I'm Viktor Aharon with Assembly Squad Remodeling LLC — we've completed 500+ renovations since 2013 (IL License #TGC098779, A+ BBB), including numerous Boystown condo remodels and investment property renovations throughout Chicago.
The client purchased this one-bedroom condo at 854 W Cornelia Unit 202 and immediately recognized that the floor plan could support a second bedroom — the living space was large enough for a conversion without compromising daily livability. That insight is the foundation of this renovation.
1BR to 2BR Open Layout Conversion — The Core ROI Play
The Boystown 1BR to 2BR conversion at 854 W Cornelia was executed with code compliance, structural integrity, and livability as the three design constraints. We positioned new walls to create a functional second bedroom with adequate natural light and ventilation while preserving a comfortable living area. The open layout design maintains flow between the kitchen and main living space — the conversion adds a bedroom without making the unit feel subdivided and cramped. In Boystown's rental market, this conversion translates to $400–$800/month additional rental income over comparable one-bedrooms.
Modern Kitchen + Bathroom Renovation — New Cabinets, Countertops, Backsplash, Fixtures
The complete kitchen renovation at 854 W Cornelia included a new cabinet system designed for maximum storage in the available footprint, new countertops, designer backsplash, and all new appliances. The bathroom was also fully renovated — new tile, new fixtures, updated vanity — bringing the unit to modern standards throughout. In a Boystown rental property renovation, both the kitchen and bathroom are top-evaluated features by prospective tenants. This renovation addresses both, ensuring premium rental positioning across the unit in East Lakeview's 60657 market.
Complete Scope of Work
- 1-bedroom to 2-bedroom layout conversion — 854 W Cornelia Boystown Chicago
- Strategic wall construction — code-compliant, adequate natural light
- Open layout design — preserved kitchen to living flow
- Complete modern kitchen installation
- New cabinet system — maximum storage in available footprint
- Modern countertop installation
- Designer backsplash installation
- All new kitchen appliances — energy efficient
- Complete bathroom renovation — new tile, fixtures, vanity
- All Chicago permits handled
Boystown Condo Renovation ROI 2026 — 60657 Investment Benchmark
The Boystown condo remodel at 854 W Cornelia — bedroom conversion plus kitchen renovation — typically delivers a first-year ROI through increased rental income alone. In Chicago's 60657 zip code, two-bedroom condos rent $400–$800/month more than comparable one-bedrooms. Kitchen renovations add $150–$300/month in achievable rent premium. Combined, a well-executed Boystown condo conversion often covers renovation costs within 18–24 months of rental income. See our Lakeview condo remodeling page → and our 1BR to 2BR Chicago condo conversion guide →
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