Read + Build Early Childhood Camp
This camp—originally scheduled for November 11—has been cancelled. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Programs & Events at CAC
At the Chicago Architecture Center, our programs and events help you think differently about the places we live, work and play. Get behind-the-scenes access to the city's architectural treasures. Practice your design skills while you play with your family. Participate in expert-led discussions about the latest urban design issues. With these offerings and so many more to choose from, we guarantee there’s something inspiring and fun for you at the CAC.
Program Archive
Programs by Format
Programs by Audience
Design Dialogues: The Future of Airport Design
The best airport terminals are easy-to-navigate spaces of architectural intrigue. Hear from a panel of leading architects who are charting a new course for airport design. Learn how they’re pulling off bold—yet functional and future-proof—visions…
Girls Build!: Architecture Essentials
This class, designed for first-time Girls Build! participants, will help female-identifying students ages 11-14 understand architecture essentials. Together we'll use the design process to create a series of architectural plans and a massing model.
Exclusive Event: What's Next? Designing the Future City (Part 2)
Join us for the second edition of “What’s Next? Designing the Future City,” a new forum exploring how business and design leaders can unite to make great cities.
Adaptable House: The Next Chicago Bungalow
Learn about Adaptable House, a re-imagining of the classic Chicago bungalow as a flexible home that grows with changing family needs. Meet Greg Tamborino, the architect behind the award-winning design, which won the 2019 Disruptive Design competition…
Girls Build!: Interior Design
This six-week scholarship program for girls ages 11-14 will give students a chance to explore the exciting world of interior design, through hands-on projects, interactions with professional designers and behind-the-scenes tours of design firms.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s World Heritage Sites
Hear from preservationists and advocates about what went into researching and applying for the World Heritage status that was recently awarded to eight Frank Lloyd Wright sites across the U.S.—including local icons Robie House and Unity Temple.
LEGO® Build Workshop: Imagine
Take a guided tour through the CAC to explore technological innovations architects and engineers use to keep building higher, then use your imagination to build your own innovative structure with LEGO®!
Teen Saturday Studio: Advocating for Architecture with AIA Illinois
Join the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Illinois to learn about real-world design issues and how buildings become a reality—from funding to government approval. Then, split into teams to debate why advocating for good design is important.
Book Talk: The South Side's Unsung Architectural Treasures
The rich architecture of Chicago’s South Side has never truly gotten its due—until now. Join photographer, historian and architecture critic Lee Bey for a look at his new book, “Southern Exposure: The Overlooked Architecture of Chicago’s South…
Girls Build! Day
This event has reached capacity. Inquiries about Girls Build! Day can be directed to Angela Esposito at aesposito@architecture.org.
LEGO® Build Workshop: Animal Habitats
Creatures of all shapes and sizes have homes. Come learn about different types of homes and build a habitat that is just right for your favorite animal with LEGO®!
Teen Open Studio - Dec. 12
Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5—7pm during the school year to get feedback and guidance on independent or competition projects. CPS students are eligible for a stipend when they attend eight or more studios.
2019 Year in Review: Chicago Design and Development
Don’t miss this special year-end summary of the biggest design and development trends in Chicago with CAC President and CEO Lynn Osmond. Hear about a wide range of transformative projects underway across the city.
