Chicago, IL–Fans of Chicago architecture, time is running out on the Bertrand Goldberg exhibit at the Art Institute of Chicago. It ends on January 15. The architect of Marina City (those iconic tubular towers built from 1959-1967), Goldberg designed hospitals, housing projects, schools, houses, and even chairs and tables during his lifetime. While there are several of his designs in Chicago–the Raymond Hilliard Center elderly housing, Prentice Women’s Hospital, and River City–his work can be found from Washington to New York, and beyond, to Turkey and Yemen.
Chicago fans will love seeing the original drawings and promotional literature for Marina City, which touted parking for 900 cars, boat slips, an ice skating rink, bowling alley, and theatre. A 1965 video from Portland Cement shows the towers being built, scarely another tall building in site.
The exhibit includes more than 100 architectural drawings, photos and architectural models, as well as chairs, tables, and lamps designed by Goldberg.
Inside Marina City: A Project by Iker Gil and Andreas E.G. Larsson, features photos of residents and their apartments in Marina City. It’s a little like taking a Sunday house tour and seeing all the fun furniture, spaces, and ways people have adapted to the uniquely shaped units. Don’t miss the pink kitchen, with the original electric push-button range and metal cabinets.
Of course, you’re welcome to stay at the Art Institute and see Rembrandts, Picassos, Van Goghs, Renoirs, and perhaps Degas’ little dancer sculpture. But if you’re looking for Goldberg, tick tock!