The Salt Shed chronicles the compelling work of reimagining and transforming Chicago's impressive Morton Salt Warehouse while honoring its history and its working-class roots. 

Originally constructed in 1929, the Morton Salt Company Warehouse Complex has been a familiar and beloved Chicago landmark along Elston Avenue between Division Street and North Avenue. For decades, the enormous hand-painted sign has captivated people traveling along busy Interstate I-90 and on Elston Avenue. As times changed, the property was no longer used for salt storage and processing and eventually lay dormant. The building was initially acquired by R2 Companies and has been repurposed and transformed into a stunning music venue: conceived, designed and built by Blue Star Properties, with 16 On Center, and Aric Lasher of HBRA Architects.

The Salt Shed tells the story of the building’s reimagining and transformation. Photographer and writer Sandra Steinbrecher spent nearly two years documenting the deconstruction, reconstruction, and reinvigoration of this classic, industrial Chicago building. Through breathtaking photos and interviews with the people who made the restoration possible--including architects, developers and workers who did the daily labor– The Salt Shed takes the reader behind the scenes in one of Chicago’s most distinctive restoration projects of the 21st century.