Chicago Review of Architecture Launches Call for Fresh Voices

UPDATE: The Chicago Review of Architecture is set to launch a new magazine dedicated to exploring the city’s built environment, with an urgent call for younger voices to contribute. Scheduled to debut in 2025, this initiative aims to reshape architectural discourse in Chicago, focusing on the complex relationship between architecture, urbanism, and social issues.

In a recent announcement, architecture critics Kate Wagner, Anjulie Rao, and Zach Mortice revealed their plans to curate a publication that promises a mix of “erudite, humorous, and hyperlocal” writing. This shift comes in response to a growing need for diverse perspectives on pressing topics such as gentrification and community displacement, especially with projects like the revamp of the Thompson Center and the controversial Obama Presidential Center.

The magazine aims to challenge the traditional, often serious tone of architecture criticism by inviting submissions that reflect both the quirks and complexities of Chicago’s architectural landscape. “There’s a history of architecture critics taking themselves far too seriously,” said Rao, emphasizing the need for a lighter, more approachable discourse.

Wagner noted the significance of engaging local voices, stating, “We want new perspectives on the region from people from the region.” This includes addressing the ongoing debates surrounding the Obama Center, which has raised concerns over parkland appropriation and rising rents affecting long-time residents.

The trio is also eager to explore the fate of professional sports stadiums in Chicago, as teams like the Bears and White Sox seek to build new venues. Wagner called for insights from sports fans, highlighting their unique interactions with these spaces. “Where are the football heads? I need someone to write about this,” she said.

As the publication gears up for its launch, they plan to issue a call for submissions in the coming weeks. “We hope to reopen debates that feel kind of open-and-shut in the discourse,” Wagner added, underscoring the importance of addressing the historical and social context of architecture in a city known for its segregation.

The Chicago Review of Architecture will also explore innovative ideas, such as community-led tours where residents share their experiences with local architecture. Rao envisions giving everyday people the platform to lead discussions on their neighborhoods, fostering a deeper connection between the community and its built environment.

With strong interest in architecture from Chicagoans, as evidenced by events like the recent Open House Chicago festival, the magazine aims to tap into this enthusiasm. “What if we gave the community of Englewood the opportunity to give tours of their area before the Obama Center opens?” Rao proposed, highlighting the potential for local knowledge to shape architectural narratives.

As this initiative unfolds, the Chicago Review of Architecture is poised to become a vital platform for critical voices in the city. Stay tuned for updates on how you can participate in this exciting new chapter in Chicago’s architectural conversation.