Motor Row: Volume I

MOTOR ROW

VOLUME I

CCC Interior Architecture Program

The CIDA-accredited Interior Architecture program at Columbia College Chicago is a four-year program that emphasizes the importance of informed design thinking. This year, Senior students are working on a project aimed at bringing new life to Chicago’s historic Motor Row district. It’s important to understand the history of this district before diving into the new ideas for Motor Row. History has a powerful way of informing the future. In the Fall, students conducted research and started conceptualizing ideas. Now, it’s time to bring that knowledge and innovation to life. This Spring, students will work to create compelling designs that showcase what is possible for the future of Chicago.

History of Motor Row

Motor Row is a historic district side, just West of McCormick rolled out in the early 1900s, districts popular places for curious consumers new technology, make purchases, learn how to drive. Chicago’s largest intact districts of its district stretches down Michigan Street and is comprised of 56 2000, it was listed as a Chicago it was added to the National

Motor Row’s period of significance 1936 when manufacturers such Locomobile, and many others showrooms in the country right of the structures were built between by renowned Chicago architects Alfred Alschuler, Christian Eckstorm, Philip Maher. These buildings to have large windows on the floor was commonly the showroom for repairs as the mechanics relied

Today, the terracotta facades grabbing the attention of many increases. The Hudson building recently been approved for a $62.5M the space to include mixed-income and 51,200 sq. ft. of commercial excellent example of what is possible Row. Any future development this unique historic district have the rich themes of innovation

RESEARCH

A Visit with Bob Joynt

district located on Chicago’s South McCormick Place. As automobiles first districts like this one became consumers to learn about this purchases, get repairs, and even Chicago’s Motor Row is one of the kind. This influential historic Michigan Avenue from 14th to 24th 56 total buildings. In the year Chicago Landmark and in 2002 National Register of Historic Places.

significance falls between 1905 and such as Ford, Buick, Hudson, others had some of their largest right here in Chicago. A majority between 1905-1915 and designed architects such as Holabird & Roche, Eckstorm, Albert Kahn, and buildings were specifically designed the first two stories; the first showroom and the second was relied on natural light to work.

facades of historic Motor Row are many as development interest building at 2222 S. Michigan has $62.5M renovation transforming mixed-income residential units, a hotel, commercial space. This project is an possible for the future of Motor development projects that take place in have an opportunity to honor innovation present in this community.

The CCC Interior Architecture Seniors participated in a tour of the historic Motor Row district, hosted by Bob Joynt of The Chicago Architectural Center. Motor Row exemplifies the rich history of Chicago’s emphasis on creativity and ingenuity. Bob Joynt gave a remarkable tour, explaining the deep history of Motor Row while also enveloping the group with his storytelling. Many of the buildings in this district remain untouched, ready to be filled with new life. Excitingly, some buildings have active construction taking place with hopes of redeveloping these buildings to their former glory.

The tour was filled with not only information on the buildings themselves but also the companies that filled these spaces. Bob Joynt painted a vivid picture of what life in this area would have looked like in the thriving years of 1905-1936, and the years beyond. As you can imagine, the area has taken many diferent shapes and forms in the past 100 years. This tour was eye-opening to the reality of the historic district’s current state and provided students with an opportunity to dream into the future, with an understanding and respect for the past.

VOLUME I

2024 Auto Show at the McCormick Place

Hosted annually in the historic Motor Row District, the Chicago Auto Show stands as a monumental event to explore the latest innovations and trends in automotive technology. Motor Row’s architectural significance and historical connection to the automobile industry provides a fitting backdrop for this illustrious event. The Chicago Auto Show launched in 1901 to publicly showcase the automotive industry’s latest innovations and models, promoting an interest in automotive technology and design. Historically, the Chicago Auto Show reflects the dynamic nature of the automotive industry and its pivotal role in shaping modern transportation and technological advancements. The Chicago Auto Show is an incredible opportunity to learn about and appreciate the innovation and forward-thinking present in the automobile industry.

The Columbia College Chicago Interior Architecture Seniors would like to thank Rich Gamble and Choose Chicago for the opportunity to attend the Chicago Auto Show in February. Attending this event was extremely valuable in gathering information for the Motor Row project. The show provided inspiration and knowledge that will help students further develop their projects.

What’s Next?

Each student is working on a project city of Chicago. Together, the showcasing the limitless potential The past few months have been and development of concept. project, students will continue and begin to get into the details spaces for the Motor Row district. two historic buildings, each student for their project. Now, utilizing student is creating a specific the necessary program requirements

The goal is for every student detailed design solutions that construction documentation, of the space. In May, this project by the Senior students. These be open to the public and College Chicago’s Manifest

RESEARCH

project that dreams into the 2024 class is dedicated to potential for Chicago’s future! been focused on research concept. In the next phase of this to develop their concepts details of their designed district. Given the option of student has chosen a site the building’s plans, each space plan that meets all requirements for their design.

student to create thoughtful and that include a business plan, documentation, and physical models project will be presented These presentations will take place at Columbia Manifest celebration May 9-10.

You’re Invited

The Senior students invite you to join them on this journey of exploring the possibilities for the future of Chicago! CCC’s Senior Interior Architecture students are excited to share their progress and experience with the community. More of these newsletters will be distributed as the project continues. The Volume II newsletter will include specific project information from individual students, showcasing the unique and diverse set of concepts being explored. In addition to the newsletter, you can also follow along with the Columbia College Chicago Interior Architecture program social media accounts via Linkedin and Instagram.

Hudson Motor Car Company

1922

2301 S Michigan Ave / Cadillac Motor Car Company

1911