High-Risers: Cabrini-Green and the Fate of American Public Housing

Using the book as a starting point, the first evening will look at the geographic, political and social history of Cabrini-Green and public housing's rise and fall, with a sense of the present moment and its low-income housing crisis and gaping inequality.

On the second evening, Ben and architect Peter Landon will focus on the architecture and construction of public housing. They’ll also explore how development and demolition are part of transforming the spaces around us.

Program Speaker: Ben Austen

Ben Austen is the author of High-Risers: Cabrini-Green and the Fate of American Public Housing. His writing has appeared in the New York Times Magazine, GQ, The Atlantic, New York, The Best American Travel Writing, among other publications. A former editor at Harper's Magazine, he is a story consultant on The City podcast and a former Fulbright to South Africa. He is a native Chicagoan and lives in Hyde Park with his family.

Program Speaker: Peter Landon

Peter Landon, FAIA, is known for his community-based engagement, urban planning, development, and design work. He has always approached his work with a social consciousness, believes in diversity and social justice, relevancy in design, and is committed to neighborhood revitalization efforts across Chicago and all urban communities. More than 30 years ago, Peter founded what is now Landon Bone Baker Architects as a firm with the goal of being involved directly with the redevelopment of the city as a whole. The firm believes in engaging the community through as many avenues as possible.

Notes:

• Single ticket purchase includes both dates in the series, February 13 and 20, 2019.
• Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center on the day of the event. View the CAC's hours.
• Discount tickets are available with a valid student ID for $20 at the CAC Box Office.