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.
Join us on Oct. 21 or 28 to build tall! We’ll explore a breathtaking collection of skyscraper models in our Drake Skyscraper Gallery, and create our own towering structures inspired by the themes: imagine, work, live and innovate.
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.
Hear about imaginative spaces created by Tokyo-based architect Takaharu Tezuka during this special guest lecture. Takaharu will share a selection of his firm’s most innovative projects, like an open-air kindergarten where children play on the roof.
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.
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.
In this exclusive talk, New York-based architect Annabelle Selldorf will share common threads across her firm’s influential work, with a focus on museum and residential designs that utilize adaptive reuse or take cues from their historical surroundings…
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.
Don't miss this in-depth review of the latest plans for the Obama Presidential Center. Lead architects Tod Williams and Billie Tsien will detail their work on this momentous project on Chicago's South Side. Space is limited.
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.
Join CAC for a sneak peek of Open House Chicago (OHC), our free, annual architecture festival taking place Oct. 13-14. Hear about what’s new and exciting in this eighth year of the event.
This 8-week class invites girls ages 11-14 to understand architecture through the work of Chicago's historic women designers. We'll go on site visits in the city, research iconic figures and develop visual literacy and architecture design skills.
Historian and visiting lecturer Paul Steinbrecher will lead this two-part book club (September 17 and 24, 2018) around Franz Schulze’s revised and expanded biography of Modernist pioneer Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.
Make your Friday night great! From 5-8pm, CAC Members will get a unique opportunity to have the Center all to themselves! This after-hours event includes access to all the exhibits, including Building Tall and the Chicago City Model Experience.
Chicago is synonymous with architecture and Chicagoans—especially CAC members—love to share their knowledge of architecture with family and friends. Come learn fun architecture facts you can share again and again at this members-only event.
Get your Western wear ready and join the CAC Auxiliary Board on their annual river cruise fundraiser benefiting CAC’s Teen Academy programs! Guests will enjoy a sunset cruise with world-class architecture, cocktails, delicious small bites and on-board…
Hip Hop Architecture Camp is a one-week intensive experience that challenges youth of underserved populations to explore the cultural implications of architecture in the built environment through the lens of hip hop culture.
Water is key to a thriving Chicago. Join us for a panel discussion to hear diverse perspectives on how good design can help us better co-exist with water in the future.
CAF has partnered with Northwestern University's Center for Talent Development to host an intensive, 3-week design program for teens in grades 9-12 this summer.
Additional time just added! The Basilica de la Sagrada Família in Barcelona is one of the world's great buildings. Hear noted engineer Tristram Carfrae explain how architect Antoni Gaudi’s masterpiece—under construction since 1882—will be completed…
Get a rare glimpse inside the Armour Institute, a towering red brick building on the Illinois Institute of Technology’s campus. Enjoy an exclusive tour of the former classroom and administrative spaces with a developer and an architect before the historic…
Learn about 1000M—a new residential skyscraper designed by acclaimed architect Helmut Jahn—in the building’s state-of-the-art interactive sales gallery. Enjoy champagne and desserts at this exclusive, members-only reception.
Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at the popular PBS series "10 That Changed America" at the WTTW Chicago studio. Host Geoffrey Baer will share highlights from his whirlwind tour of America's architectural treasures.
Think and create like a scientist as we explore the questions, “What are buildings are made of?” and “How do they stand so tall?” Drop in any time between 9am and noon for multiple readings of “Ada Twist, Scientist” by Andrea Beaty.
Think and create like a scientist as we explore the questions, “What are buildings are made of?” and “How do they stand so tall?” Drop in any time between 9am and noon for multiple readings of “Ada Twist, Scientist” by Andrea Beaty.
Driven by the motivation to design soulful and interesting places for a complex world, Heatherwick Studio has many inventive works to its name. Join us for a presentation with architect Mat Cash, Group Leader at the internationally renowned firm.
This exclusive, members-only tour will take you through the recently opened Hotel Zachary in Wrigleyville, named for Wrigley Field architect Zachary Taylor Davis.
Learn the quirks of the Windy City! CAF docent and “What’s With Chicago?” author Ellen Shubart will discuss her new book at this daytime talk.
Chicago, the “City in a Garden,” has more than 8,000 acres of green space! Have you ever been to one of Chicago's parks? Join us from 12pm to 3pm to visit Maggie Daley Park and collaborate as a group to design your own LEGO® park.
Are you a CPS student looking for some feedback and guidance on your project for the 2018 Newhouse Architecture + Design Competition? Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5—7pm, Feb. 1 through May 10 (closed Feb. 15 & March 29)…
Learn about architecture from a builder termite named Roberto. Drop in any time between 9am and 12pm to enjoy multiple readings of Nina Laden's "Roberto, The Insect Architect” and make your own animal habitat.
Are you a CPS student looking for some feedback and guidance on your project for the 2018 Newhouse Architecture + Design Competition? Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5—7pm, Feb. 1 through May 10 (closed Feb. 15 & March 29)…
The May 10 date for this program has been canceled. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Join us for an inside look at CAF's mission, vision and current activities. This presentation, geared towards new members, will provide insight on the inner workings of CAF and the importance of membership support.
Learn about architecture from a builder termite named Roberto. Drop in any time between 9am and 12pm to enjoy multiple readings of Nina Laden's "Roberto, The Insect Architect” and make your own animal habitat.
Are you a CPS student looking for some feedback and guidance on your project for the 2018 Newhouse Architecture + Design Competition? Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5—7pm, Feb. 1 through May 10 (closed Feb. 15 & March 29)…
The Forest Preserves of Cook County's Next Century Conservation Plan lays the groundwork for bringing 30,000 acres—nearly half its total area—back to ecological health and adding 21,000 new acres. Get an update from General Superintendent Arnold Randall…
The great swath of prairies from Canada to Texas has inspired and guided the photography of Terry Evans for 40 years. During this talk organized by MAS Context, Terry will show photos of ancient prairie, fracking sites and Chicago's environmental pollution…
Join us for an optional walking tour with a CAF Docent, followed by dinner and a presentation at Quiote—one of Time Out Chicago's Best New Restaurants of 2017. This is a CAF donor exclusive event.
Are you a CPS student looking for some feedback and guidance on your project for the 2018 Newhouse Architecture + Design Competition? Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5—7pm, Feb. 1 through May 10 (closed Feb. 15 & March 29)…
What can Chicago learn from adaptive reuse projects in other parts of the world? Hear Dominc Bettison, director of London-based WilkinsonEyre, explain how his firm has ingeniously reinvented neglected spaces in aging cities.
The beauty is in the details! We’ll visit Harold Washington Library to examine its details and decode symbols that reference Chicago’s history. Then, we’ll make the building come alive as a LEGO® creation in our Design Studio.
Architect Adrian Smith filed the Lakeshore East master plan in 2002. Fifteen years later, it’s worth pausing to look back at how this wholly new neighborhood has evolved. Join Adrian and others with deep ties to Lakeshore East as they reflect on its…
Are you a CPS student looking for some feedback and guidance on your project for the 2018 Newhouse Architecture + Design Competition? Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5—7pm, Feb. 1 through May 10 (closed Feb. 15 & March 29)…
Are you a CPS student looking for some feedback and guidance on your project for the 2018 Newhouse Architecture + Design Competition? Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5—7pm, Feb. 1 through May 10 (closed Feb. 15 & March 29)…
The McCormick House is one of only three residences designed and built by Mies van der Rohe in the United States. Moved to the Elmhurst Art Museum in 1994, the home is now undergoing a renovation that will restore much of its original feel.
Are you a CPS student looking for some feedback and guidance on your project for the 2018 Newhouse Architecture + Design Competition? Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5—7pm, Feb. 1 through May 10 (closed Feb. 15 & March 29)…
Explore how cities are designed, from the people on the sidewalks to the buildings reaching tall! In this unique workshop we will think about urban planning, neighborhoods and big cities as we work together to build our own Found City.
Are you a CPS student looking for some feedback and guidance on your project for the 2018 Newhouse Architecture + Design Competition? Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5—7pm, Feb. 1 through May 10 (closed Feb. 15 & March 29)…
Join us for an inside look at CAF's mission, vision and current activities. This presentation, geared towards new members, will provide insight on the inner workings of CAF and the importance of membership support.
Are you a CPS student looking for some feedback and guidance on your project for the 2018 Newhouse Architecture + Design Competition? Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5—7pm, Feb. 1 through May 10 (closed Feb. 15 & March 29)…
Drop in any time between 9am and 12pm to enjoy multiple readings of "Last Stop on Market Street" by Matt Pena. We'll explore what makes a neighborhood special and use mixed-media to create a model community.
Drop in any time between 9am and 12pm to enjoy multiple readings of "Last Stop on Market Street" by Matt Pena. We'll explore what makes a neighborhood special and use mixed-media to create a model community.
Are you a CPS student looking for some feedback and guidance on your project for the 2018 Newhouse Architecture + Design Competition? Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5—7pm, Feb. 1 through May 10 (closed Feb. 15 & March 29)…
Join us at this exclusive event that's just for you, our members! The evening will include a presentation from CAF President and CEO Lynn Osmond that you won't want to miss.
What are Chicago's most endangered buildings? Find out at the unveiling of Preservation Chicago's 16th annual "Chicago 7" list. The list identifies architecturally significant structures that preservationists hope to save from the wrecking ball.
We invite K-12 educators in all subject areas to explore why design matters through activities. Come learn about exciting resources and program offerings for you and your students, both here at CAF and in classrooms.
Are you a CPS student looking for some feedback and guidance on your project for the 2018 Newhouse Architecture + Design Competition? Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5—7pm, Feb. 1 through May 10 (closed Feb. 15 & March 29)…
Architect, urban designer and activist Doug Farr’s second book, “Sustainable Nation: Urban Design Patterns for the Future,” poses one big question: how can we make the world we want, as quickly as possible? Come get unique access to the author during…
How can a building be so tall without falling over? Willis Tower is made up of nine towers “bundled” together to make it strong and tall. Join us from 12—3pm on February 18 or 19 as we build tall and test the method using LEGO, paper, tape and tubes…
On Feb. 15, get a behind-the-scenes look at The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare, a new, flexible theater that opened this fall on Navy Pier. Architect Gordon Gill and Chicago Shakespeare Theater Executive Director Criss Henderson will lead this special tour…
Perhaps no Chicago neighborhood has experienced as turbulent of a century as Bronzeville. Join us for a lecture and panel discussion to hear diverse perspectives on developments that are re-energizing this historic neighborhood.
The 2018 Chicago Architecture Foundation Gala, Celebrate Our City, took place on Thursday, February 8, at Revel Fulton Market in the West Loop.
Are you a CPS student looking for some feedback and guidance on your project for the 2018 Newhouse Architecture + Design Competition? Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5—7pm, Feb. 1 through May 10 (closed Feb. 15 & March 29)…
Chicago is famous for its tall skyscrapers. Together we’ll dream up buildings of all shapes and sizes and create your own mini-skyscraper to take home. Drop in any time between 9am-noon for multiple readings of “Iggy Peck, Architect” by Andrea Beaty…
Chicago is famous for its tall skyscrapers. Together we’ll dream up buildings of all shapes and sizes and create your own mini-skyscraper to take home. Drop in any time between 9am-noon for multiple readings of “Iggy Peck, Architect” by Andrea Beaty…
The greening of tall buildings is reaching a new level of sophistication around the world, encompassing a movement to incorporate full-height planted walls, green roofs, wind turbines and the latest solar harvesting technology. Four experts debate the…
Are you a CPS student looking for some feedback and guidance on your project for the 2018 Newhouse Architecture + Design Competition? Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5—7pm, Feb. 1 through May 10 (closed Feb. 15 & March 29)…
Like many of Chicago’s grand movie palaces, the Congress Theater has seen better days. That doesn’t mean its best days are behind it. Join us for a talk with Woodhouse Tinucci Architects and theater owner Michael Moyer, the team leading an adaptive…
Join legendary interior designer Eva Maddox for an exploration of her work as featured in the new book, "Eva Maddox: Innovator, Designer, Educator" by Romy Wyllie. Stick around after the lecture for a book signing!
What makes your house a home? Together we'll learn about many types of houses, then explore our materials library to make a mini-diorama of your home. Drop in any time between 9am and noon for multiple readings of “Home” by Carson Ellis.
What makes your house a home? Together we'll learn about many types of houses, then explore our materials library to make a mini-diorama of your home. Drop in any time between 9am and noon for multiple readings of “Home” by Carson Ellis.
Why do buildings look the way they do? Architectural design is influenced by technology, materials and the city itself. Explore the Railway Exchange Building to learn why it looks the way it does, then recreate it using LEGO®.
In these 3-hour “master-class” studios, teens will work alongside local architects and designers on a mini-design challenge inspired by the Chicago Architecture Biennial. Participants will learn about the Biennial’s themes then build, sketch, photograph…
Are you a CPS student looking for some feedback and guidance on your project for the BP Competition? Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5-7pm, Oct. 19 through Dec. 14 (excluding Nov. 23).
Join CAF at The PrivateBank Theatre on Dec. 13 for a cocktail reception and performance of the landmark musical, "Hamilton."
Join us for an afternoon of style, featuring a tour that explains the Drake Hotel's history, architecture and design.
Join us for a community festival inspired by the Chicago Architecture Biennial theme, "Make New History." Families can drop-in anytime between 12-4pm to enjoy hands-on activities and projects great for ages 4-12.
In these 3-hour “master-class” studios, teens will work alongside local architects and designers on a mini-design challenge inspired by the Chicago Architecture Biennial. Participants will learn about the Biennial’s themes then build, sketch, photograph…
Are you a CPS student looking for some feedback and guidance on your project for the BP Competition? Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5-7pm, Oct. 19 through Dec. 14 (excluding Nov. 23).
In these 3-hour “master-class” studios, teens will work alongside local architects and designers on a mini-design challenge inspired by the Chicago Architecture Biennial. Participants will learn about the Biennial’s themes then build, sketch, photograph…
In these 3-hour “master-class” studios, teens will work alongside local architects and designers on a mini-design challenge inspired by the Chicago Architecture Biennial. Participants will learn about the Biennial’s themes then build, sketch, photograph…
In these 3-hour “master-class” studios, teens will work alongside local architects and designers on a mini-design challenge inspired by the Chicago Architecture Biennial. Participants will learn about the Biennial’s themes then build, sketch, photograph…
Are you a CPS student looking for some feedback and guidance on your project for the BP Competition? Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5-7pm, Oct. 19 through Dec. 14 (excluding Nov. 23).
This year marks the CTA's 70th anniversary and the 125th anniversary of the 'L.' Come hear the CTA’s Graham Garfield reveal unrealized dreams and schemes for the system.
Join us for a talk with distinguished Chicago-based architect Helmut Jahn. Helmut will discuss the evolution of his prolific residential practice both locally and internationally. In Chicago, new apartment towers are rising at a furious pace, often with…
Did you know that buildings can tell stories? Join us to take a closer look at the ornamentation on the Tribune Tower that help tell its story. In the studio, you'll create your own LEGO® tower and emphasize your favorite details.
In these 3-hour “master-class” studios, teens will work alongside local architects and designers on a mini-design challenge inspired by the Chicago Architecture Biennial. Participants will learn about the Biennial’s themes then build, sketch, photograph…
In these 3-hour “master-class” studios, teens will work alongside local architects and designers on a mini-design challenge inspired by the Chicago Architecture Biennial. Participants will learn about the Biennial’s themes then build, sketch, photograph…
To facilitate livable cities, tall buildings must be constructed with greater understanding and consideration of their connection to the people living in and around them. Hear four experts speak on this topic.
Are you a CPS student looking for some feedback and guidance on your project for the BP Competition? Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5-7pm, Oct. 19 through Dec. 14 (excluding Nov. 23).
In these 3-hour “master-class” studios, teens will work alongside local architects and designers on a mini-design challenge inspired by the Chicago Architecture Biennial. Participants will learn about the Biennial’s themes then build, sketch, photograph…
In these 3-hour “master-class” studios, teens will work alongside local architects and designers on a mini-design challenge inspired by the Chicago Architecture Biennial. Participants will learn about the Biennial’s themes then build, sketch, photograph…
Join us as we take a close look at segregation in the built environment with WBEZ’s Natalie Moore and artist and architect Amanda Williams. We’ll examine how our choices and attitudes greatly shape the city around us.
Are you a CPS student looking for some feedback and guidance on your project for the BP Competition? Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5-7pm, Oct. 19 through Dec. 14 (excluding Nov. 23).
The number of Chicagoans living near industrial uses may increase soon, with proposals to rezone the Chicago River’s north branch and phase out some planned manufacturing districts. Can design mitigate this new live-work proximity for mutual benefit?
Are you an inventor? Construct a magnificent machine from odds and ends, test it out and celebrate its successes and failures. Drop in any time between 9am and 12pm to enjoy multiple readings of "Rosie Revere, Engineer" by Andrea Beaty.
In these 3-hour “master-class” studios, teens will work alongside local architects and designers on a mini-design challenge inspired by the Chicago Architecture Biennial. Participants will learn about the Biennial’s themes then build, sketch, photograph…
In these 3-hour “master-class” studios, teens will work alongside local architects and designers on a mini-design challenge inspired by the Chicago Architecture Biennial. Participants will learn about the Biennial’s themes then build, sketch, photograph…
Are you a CPS student looking for some feedback and guidance on your project for the BP Competition? Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5-7pm, Oct. 19 through Dec. 14 (excluding Nov. 23).