Chicago architecture is some of the most interesting and beautiful in the world. At Open House Chicago, you have the opportunity to not just see the outside of these magnificent buildings, but learn about their history, and experience what they look like from inside. You will get to check out buildings like mansions on the lake, theaters and clubs, hotels, secret rooms, and more.  Open House Chicago is a free public festival takes you behind the scenes of over 300 of Chicago’s most unique buildings and hidden secrets.

Open House Chicago allows attendees to explore the architecture of different historical buildings, and learn about the initial design and building process, but also, in some cases, the restoration projects that brought the buildings back to the splendor they are today. The 1871 Chicago Fire destroyed most of downtown (now known as the Loop), and this area was rebuilt during the 1870s – 1890s. This reconstruction process created the modern skyscraper, and downtown Chicago is still home to many innovative new construction projects today.

The participating sites allow visitors to explore areas that are typically off limits to the public like rooftops, ballrooms, and even private clubs. In years past, Open House Chicago has included tours of buildings like the historic Blackstone Hotel and the Chicago Associates Planners and Architects Airstream Building, the latter of which is usually only able to be seen from the CTA Brown Line. In 2019, visitors will get to tour and learn about places like the Design Museum of Chicago and the Broadway in Chicago James M. Nederlander Theatre. Originally called the Oriental Theatre, it opened in 1926 for film showings and live performances. It fell into disrepair and was nearly torn down, but was restored as a venue for live musicals in the late 1990s.

The best part? It’s free of charge! On October 19th and 20th 2019, make it a plan to learn some new things, see some rare sights, and experience Chicago like you’ve never seen it before.

McMahon Services Construction and Restoration

At McMahon Services, we’re proud to offer construction and restoration services to all of Chicago and surrounding areas. We know that restoring your home or business after a disaster is never something anyone is prepared for, which is why we make it as easy for our clients as possible.

We want you to focus on getting your life back to normal while we take care of the restoration process. We’ve served the Chicago area since 1954, and you can rest assured that your construction and restoration project are in great and capable hands with McMahon Services.

Join us at Open House Chicago to see our restoration and construction projects in person, and call us for your restoration and construction needs.