Preservation Chicago

Explore "NEW PATHS TO PRESERVATION: THE LATE MODERN DILEMMA," an upcoming "Preservation Month" panel discussion at the Chicago Architecture Center's Gand Lecture Hall on THURSDAY, MAY 14 at 6 p.m. (111 E. Wacker Drive). Experts from Chicago, New York and L.A. will share how existing tools and new approaches for renewing buildings can support housing needs and responsible growth. As cities face rising housing demand and underused office space, preservation of existing buildings is now playing a more pivotal role in what comes next. Many Late Modern office buildings are becoming obsolete. While Willis Tower and “Big Red” have been successfully redeveloped, many other buildings will require creative reuse to avoid demolition.

The panelists are: Kendra Parzen (Advocacy Manager at Landmarks Illinois), Adam Rubin (CAC Sr. Director of Public Engagement and a Chicago landmarks commissioner), Frank Mahan, AIA (Design Principal, Adaptive Reuse Practice Leader, SOM), and Ken Bernstein, who heads the Office of Historic Resources for the City of Los Angeles where a citywide adaptive reuse ordinance was recently adopted.

Click photo below to REGISTER:

New Paths to Preservation: The Late Modern Dilemma In honor of Preservation Month, hear from a panel of experts on existing tools and new approaches for renewing buildings to support housing needs and responsible growth.

There's still time to register to see our 2026 Chicago 7 Most Endangered Buildings announcement live on Zoom at high noon on Wed March 4 (we've reached capacity for in -person attendance). Ward Miller will take you on an exciting ride as he reveals the list and how you can help Preservation Chicago get them saved. Register at https://www.architecture.org/events-programs/chicagos-7-most-endangered-buildings-in-2026. See you online on March 4 at noon!! Ward is the Richard H. Driehaus Executive Director of Preservation Chicago!

Chicago’s 7 Most Endangered Buildings in 2026 Join us for a talk with Ward Miller, Richard H. Driehaus Executive Director of Preservation Chicago, exploring the histories and significance of these architectural treasures, the threats they face and how they can be protected. This program is offered in-person and online.

Have fun while supporting the renovation of the historic Avalon Regal Theater on Chicago's South Side by attending the "Avalon Regal Theater Launch Party" on Thursday, March 12 from 8 pm to midnight. Called "Chicago Comedy Search: Live at the Regal," the fundraiser is a taste of live performances to come when the landmarked theater opens again. The "March 12 Launch Fundraiser" takes place at Pressure Point Recording Studio at 2239 South Michigan Avenue. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/avalon-regal-theater-launch-party-tickets-1982976599389

The Avalon Regal Theater, 1927, John Eberson, 1641 East 79th Street. Photo Credits: Eric Allix Rogers