HONOR
UNBUILT DESIGN
Chicago, Illinois
| Architect: | Krueck & Sexton Architects |
| Associate Architect: | McClier Corp. |
| Client/Owner: | The Arts Club of Chicago |
Controversy has surrounded the Arts Club of Chicago from the moment it was announced that its Ontario Street home -- the only pure interiors project by Mies van der Rohe (that is, in a building designed by someone else) -- was to be demolished. Club members were divided over the direction the new building should take. Should it attempt to recreate the atmosphere of the Mies project, much beloved by Arts Club members, or should it foster architectural innovation, and try something bold?
This project was commissioned, although not chosen, by the Arts Club and offers an alternative approach for the new building on the corner of Ontario and St. Clair Streets. This Arts Club isunabashedly progressive and unencumbered by the nostalgia of the club's past. The main feature of the building is an atrium that allows filtered light into the central galleries and dining areas. Metal screens on the north side of the building veil the busy street and provide privacy. This design affirms that the "tradition" of the Arts Club is one of change.
