eta Creative Arts Foundation, Inc.

Chicago, Illinois (Grand Crossing)


eta Creative Arts Foundation, Inc. (eta) is a leading African American cultural performing arts institution in Chicago’s South Side. To enhance their facilities, eta and IFF have partnered with Eckenhoff Saunders to renovate and expand their existing facilities. This project is not just about the physical transformation but about creating a space that inspires the next generation of performing artists and serves as a cultural and educational hub for community members to grow and thrive.

The scope of the project includes renovating their existing theatre and building, including, but not limited to, enhanced acoustics and lighting, redesign of the lobby, upgraded restrooms to meet ADA compliance, improvements to classrooms, the gallery café, the basement space, and other program areas. The project scope also includes developing a building addition that will house a state-of-the-art recording studio and supportive programming spaces, opening up new avenues for creativity and learning. Additionally, a new parking lot across the street will provide convenience for all patrons and visitors.


Credits:

Client: eta Creative Arts Foundation, Inc.

Program Manager: IFF

Theatre Planning & Lighting Design: Schuler Shook

MEP/FP Engineering: dbHMS

Civil Engineering: TERRA Engineering

Acoustical Design: Kirkegaard

Cost Estimating: Middleton Construction Consulting

Graphics/Wayfinding: Cardosi Kiper Design Group