Modbox Homes Growing in Popularity Throughout Chicago

Bungalows and two-flats may be commonplace in some Chicago neighborhoods, but there’s a new home style that seems to be sweeping across the city. The homes are often called “Mod Boxes”, but no matter what you call them, they’re boxy, contemporary new residences.

It’s said these types of homes are the result of using computer-aided design programs. The homes are box-shaped, and sometimes covered by fiber cement panels or an aluminum-like façade.

They’ve been called “McModerns” or even “Gentrification Cubes” because these boxy homes are often constructed as replacement homes or infill homes in existing neighborhoods. In some cases, they’ve spread across entire blocks.

One editor and former columnist coined the named “Minecraft Modern”, because the homes seem to resemble the block-like structures found in Minecraft video games. There are several examples in the city, including a contemporary, Mod Box home in Jefferson Park.

The home has a flat roof and street-facing windows. It replaced a small bungalow, and now stands out in a neighborhood mostly filled with two-flats, bungalows and ranches.

In many cases, the homes the Mod Box homes replaced were older, smaller and sold for considerably less than the new, modern homes. It’s common to find Mod Box homes with oversized windows, high ceilings and open concept floorplans.

Because the homes are often brand new, or newer construction, they also tend to come with some of the most modern interior features and finishes. This includes new hardwoods, custom lighting and high-end finishes. Some also offer quartz countertops and large backyards, perfect for gathering with family and friends.