Decent Homes was commissioned by The Caxton Club of Chicago in celebration of their publication, Chicago by the Book: 101 Publications That Shaped the City and Its Image. It’s a response to Edith Abbott’s The Tenements of Chicago, 1908-1935. This seminal book was the culmination of data collected by herself and her associates at Hull House that documented the state of housing for the poor and working class families of Chicago.
When laid flat, it showcases the ideals of neighborhoods set forth by Abbott’s research: homes with windows, fire escapes, green spaces and playgrounds, garbage collection, working plumbing and sewer systems. Hidden under folded flaps are hints of the tenement housing Abbott explored that led to her fight for better conditions. The reverse side of the illustrative pages contains text and quotes pulled from The Tenements of Chicago. When the book stands, it forms a six-pointed or Chicago star.

Letterpress printed on Zerkall paper entirely with metal type (Empire and Elizabeth) and ornament, with Keaykolour paper covered boards. Measures 5x7”. Edition of 6, 1 deluxe for the Caxton Club and 5 standard.