XS Restaurant and Lobby Renovation — SEEK Design + Architecture

XS Restaurant Addition
and Lobby Renovation

Location: Bronzeville, Chicago, Illinois
Year: 2023
Size: 6,000 sf
Status: Preconstruction
Category: Hospitality
Services: Architecture, Interiors

Located on the historic site of the former Robert Taylor Homes in Chicago’s Washington Park neighborhood, the XS Tennis and Education Foundation is a beacon of opportunity for underserved youth. Strategically positioned at the intersection of State and 55th Streets, the facility’s proximity to the University of Chicago and surrounding community establishes it as a central hub for sports, education, and community connection.

This project introduces a modern restaurant addition to the facility, designed to serve not only XS Tennis members but also the broader Washington Park community and future developments in the area. The restaurant enhances the foundation’s ability to provide a holistic experience for its members and guests.

Alongside the new restaurant, the existing lobby, locker rooms, and member lounge are renovated to seamlessly align with the warm, clean, modern design of the new construction. On the exterior, design cohesion is further emphasized by extending an expanded metal mesh facade from the new construction across the existing building.

This project reinforces the foundation's mission by creating a space that not only supports its tennis and education programs but also fosters broader community engagement, serving as a vital resource for the south side of Chicago.