New Chicago Architecture Center working toward 2018 opening

Work on the Chicago Architecture Foundation’s brand new Chicago Architecture Center is moving into high gear. Earlier this week, a $4.7 million construction permit was issued for the riverfront project which will eventually become CAF’s new base of operations following the organization’s 25 year stint in the old Railway Exchange Building.

Located at 111 E. Wacker Drive, the 20,000-square-foot space will feature an interior designed by Chicago-based Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture. The renovation is part of a larger project to overhaul the Mies van der Rohe-designed Illinois Center office complex. Renovation work commenced in early 2017.

Situated just across the river from Foster + Partners’ glassy Apple store, the upcoming Chicago Architecture Center will house a lecture hall, gift shop, and the Foundation’s famous 3D scale model of downtown Chicago. It will also provide convenient access to the CAF’s architecture river cruise aboard Chicago’s First Lady Cruises. The facility is expected to open in summer 2018

• Renovation/alteration permit at 111 E. Wacker Drive [Chicago Cityscape]
• Chicago Architecture Foundation announces new architecture center [Curbed Chicago]