About Somerset Place Apartments
Somerset Place Apartments offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern living in the heart of Uptown. Originally built in 1919 as a luxurious hotel, this Renaissance Revival-style building was thoughtfully renovated and reopened as apartments in 2014, preserving its architectural beauty, including original arches and elegant details. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places as part of the West Argyle Street Historic District, making it perfect for renters who appreciate character and history in their home.
Inside, the community features a variety of studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments with updated kitchens, hardwood-style flooring, and plenty of natural light. While it offers a comfortable, value-oriented living experience, Somerset Place sets itself apart with high-quality finishes and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Laundry is a breeze with machines conveniently located on every floor, ensuring a highly favorable ratio of washers and dryers to apartments — no long waits or trips to a far-off laundry room. The building also welcomes pets, adding to its appeal for a wide range of residents.
Managed professionally with secure entry, a fitness center, and a rooftop deck with stunning views, Somerset Place provides a well-rounded Uptown living experience that balances historic character with practical amenities.
The Neighborhood
Uptown offers a lively and diverse community atmosphere, known for its historic theaters, lakeside parks, and eclectic food scene. Somerset Place Apartments place you in the heart of this vibrant neighborhood, close enough to enjoy both the calm of the lake and the energy of city life.
Restaurants near Somerset Place
Enjoy a variety of dining options just minutes away:
- Tweet – Cozy café with coffee and light bites
- Sun Wah BBQ – Famous for their authentic Chinese barbecue
- DaNang Kitchen – Vietnamese cuisine with fresh, bold flavors
- Breakfast House Uptown – Popular spot for hearty morning meals
Transportation Options
Somerset Place is well-connected to public transit, with several CTA bus routes nearby and the new and improved Argyle Red Line station (opened in July 2025) within walking distance. Additionally, the Foster Ave onramp to Lake Shore Drive is just a couple of blocks northeast of the building. These options provide easy access to downtown Chicago and surrounding neighborhoods, making commuting or exploring the city simple and stress-free.
Parks and Recreation
Residents of Somerset Place have plenty of green space nearby to stay active and unwind!
- Hickory Park – Quiet, tree-lined park with playgrounds
- Lincoln Park – North end of the expansive park with trails and sports fields
- Foster Beach – Popular lakefront spot for swimming and sunbathing
- Montrose Beach – Large beach area with dog-friendly zones
- Lakefront Trail – Scenic route perfect for biking and jogging
Universities and Employers
This Uptown location puts you near several educational and healthcare institutions:
- Harry S Truman College – Community college offering a range of programs
- St. Augustine College – Known for healthcare and professional studies
- DeVry University – Technical and business degree programs
- Loyola University Chicago Lake Shore Campus – Renowned private university
- Advocate Medical Group – Major healthcare provider in the area
Grocery and Convenience
For daily essentials and specialty items, residents can count on:
- Jewel-Osco – Full-service grocery with fresh produce and pharmacy
- Mariano’s – Another great grocery option with prepared foods
- Tai Nam Food Market, Old World Market – Specialty markets with international ingredients
- Circle K and CVS – Convenient stops for quick needs and pharmacy items
