Family Build: Materials + Construction
Design and build with your family on Sunday mornings in the studio, where themed stations will introduce you to architecture basics. Take part in design challenges and make a take home project. Ages 3 and up.
Programs & Events at CAC
At 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 CAC.
Program Archive
Programs by Format
Programs by Audience
Teen Open Studio - Mar. 28
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.
Daytime Talk: The Man in the Glass House
With his famous Glass House design, Philip Johnson set the stage for his long and controversial career. Hear Dallas Morning News architecture critic Mark Lamster discuss “The Man in the Glass House,” his new biography on this fascinating architect…
The House You Live In: Chicago's Homegrown Architecture
Ever wonder how Chicago’s housing styles came to be? A noted architectural historian will lead this two-part class that delves into Chicago’s vernacular architecture and highlights common housing stock in the city.
Pecha Kucha Chicago
Imagine this: 20 PowerPoint slides, shown for only 20 seconds each. The slides advance automatically—so presenters have to keep up! Come hear 400-second stories about design and architecture at this fun and informal event with creative professionals…
LEGO® Build Workshop: Pioneer Court
Learn about the materials used to build three iconic Chicago buildings in Pioneer Court: Tribune Tower, the Equitable Building and the Apple store. Then, try your hand at designing your own unique structure using LEGO®.
Teen Open Studio - Mar. 14
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.
Members' Night
On March 13, enjoy the CAC after-hours at this special members-only celebration. Mingle with fellow architecture enthusiasts, enjoy light snacks and beverages, take a mini-tour through the CAC and hear about Chicago’s newest architecture developments…
How to Avert a Preservation Crisis in Chicago
The Chicago Historic Resources Survey hasn’t been updated in years, and gaps in its coverage place significant buildings at risk of hasty demolition. Hear a diverse group of experts discuss the urgent need to create a new survey.
Teen Open Studio - Mar. 7
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.
Read and Build: Materials + Construction
Join us on our imaginary construction site as we explore building materials and test innovations that keep our buildings standing tall! Drop in any time to enjoy a reading of “Mighty Mighty Construction Site” by Sherri Duskey Rinker.
Teen Open Studio - Feb. 28
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.
Architect Talk: An evening with Stanley Tigerman
Join us for an evening with with legendary Chicago architect and activist Stanley Tigerman as he reflects on his career and his impact on Chicago and architecture and design.
Daytime Talk: Chicago’s Most Endangered Buildings of 2019
What are Chicago's most endangered buildings? Find out at the unveiling of Preservation Chicago's 17th annual "Chicago 7" list. The list identifies architecturally significant structures that preservationists hope to save from the wrecking ball.
Engineering Fest
On Feb. 23 and 24, drop by anytime between 9:30am—5pm to build and learn, view two floors of exhibits, meet engineers and celebrate the 125th anniversary of the World’s Fair at the CAC’s annual two-day Engineering Fest—bigger and better than ever…