Doors open to architectural treasures

By Steven Nunez, Photojournalist

Skyscrapers, renovated mansions, lavish theatres, exclusive clubs, industrial facilities and sacred spaces that are usually closed to the public were open to all Saturday and Sunday, for the Chicago Architecture Center’s Open House Chicago.

The annual festival is free and open to the public and offers people the opportunity to get behind-the-scenes access to all kinds of buildings in the Chicagoland area. Since 2011, more than 350 sites have been open for viewing in nearly 40 neighborhoods.

Some of these buildings include the Rookery Building, 209 S. LaSalle St.; the Sky-Line Club, 307 N. Michigan Ave.; the Blue Cross Blue Shield Tower, 300 E. Randolph St.; and more.

The Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E. Wacker Drive, is a nonprofit organization that hosts tours, exhibitions, programs and events for all ages.