Chicago Symphony Center – Orchestra Hall

Chicago Symphony Center – Orchestra Hall
Chicago Symphony Center – Orchestra Hall

Project Facts
  • Status Construction Complete
  • Completion Year 1998
  • Size Number of Stories: 9 Building Gross Area: 228,000 square feet
  • Collaborators
    Donnell Consultants, Inc. Fisher Dachs Associates, Inc. Larry Kierkegaard And Associates Michael Mccann
Project Facts
  • Status Construction Complete
  • Completion Year 1998
  • Size Number of Stories: 9 Building Gross Area: 228,000 square feet
  • Collaborators
    Donnell Consultants, Inc. Fisher Dachs Associates, Inc. Larry Kierkegaard And Associates Michael Mccann

Since 1904, Orchestra Hall has been home to the renowned Chicago Symphony Orchestra. The Georgian building, designed by the pioneering architect Daniel Burnham, was in need of a dramatic makeover by the end of the 20th century. The project called for enhancing the concert hall experience by improving sightlines and acoustics, in addition to bolstering public and back-of-house spaces.

Restoration of the landmark building involved strengthening the foundation, expanding facilities, and redesigning HVAC systems. New or expanded spaces include rehearsal halls, lobbies, meeting rooms, and a public arcade that connects the Michigan Avenue Symphony Center entrance to a new rotunda.

Critical backstage space and rehearsal areas were augmented by a new eight-story artistic support wing. Other facilities, including conductor and guest dressing rooms and equipment storage areas, were added below ground. SOM also renovated the adjacent Chapin & Gore building, adding a cafe, restaurant, music education center, and administrative offices.

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