This past weekend was Open House Chicago, which is put on by the Chicago Architecture Foundation, and gives free, behind-the-scenes access to 150 buildings across Chicago. This is the fourth year of the event, and I’ve done it all four years. It is now one of my favorite events of Autumn.
Our first stop was to Sedgwick Studio, 1544 N. Sedgwick, which is described as “Hidden under the Sedgwick L station, this building opened in 1900 as an electrical substation. It now functions as six artist studios, including sculpture fabrication and a neon shop.”
- In Sedgwick Studio © Ellen Wade Beals, 2014
- Artistic metal © Ellen Wade Beals, 2014
After that we went to Palette & Chisel Academy of Fine Art, 1012 N. Dearborn, described as “Chicago’s oldest arts academy is loacated in a mansion built for William Waller. It was founded, in part, under the sponsorship of the great sculptor Lorado Taft. After that we headed to see the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and Money Museum, 230 S. LaSalle.
The we went to Ignite Glass Studios, 401 N. Armour, which is “a state-of-the-art glass blowing studio, educational facility, and event space.” We watched some demonstrations, looked at the gallery, and went to the roof.
Our last stop was to 1807 W. Sunnyside (the Airstream Building), which is explained, “CTA Brown Line riders are often confused the the classic 1960s Airstream trailer perched atop this office building.” We climbed to the roof to see the Airstream and the skyline views.
Thanks to everyone who made this event so great. I am looking forward to next year.
Great shots, you should put some up in instagram at #chitecture. I’d love to go with you next year!
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Loved it all. Thanks for being the chauffeur ..
This makes me so homesick for Chicago! Thanks for providing the virtual tour.
Thank you for reading — hope to see you soon.