60th Anniversary

In 2026, the Chicago Architecture Center proudly celebrates 60 years of inspiring people to discover why design matters. The organization was born in April 1966 when a group of passionate, determined Chicagoans came together to stop the demolition of Glessner House, a treasured historic building.

Today the CAC is one of Chicago’s leading cultural organizations that – through civic advocacy, youth and adult education, programs and tours – showcases Chicago and ideas from cities worldwide to inspire better living through design.