Teen Saturday Studios

This exciting program, now in partnership with Harold Washington College, offers completely free 3-hour workshops for high school students (grades 9-12) who are interested in exploring the world of architecture and design.

Led by experienced professionals in architecture, design, engineering, and other related fields, Teen Saturday Studios offer a unique opportunity to learn from those in the field and develop valuable skills that can be applied in a range of real-world settings.

Participants are welcome to enroll in individual sessions, though are encouraged to experience the scope of opportunities. Spots are limited, so stay connected and register soon! 

Timeline + Schedule 

Workshops take place every 3rd Saturday of the month unless otherwise noted. Harold Washington College will be the primary location, but some workshops may include nearby site visits. The program runs from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

CAC's Teen Saturday Studio program is a part of the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Youth Learning Programs.

  • Saturday, September 20

    Adaptive Reuse

    Participants will explore how old or neglected structures can be transformed into useful spaces through adaptive reuse. Blending various skills of architecture this workshop introduces participants to the process of revitalizing small-scale buildings and learning how to work with what already exists. 

    Details

    • Date: Saturday, September 20
    • Duration: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
    • Location: Harold Washington College
    • Cost: FREE; advance registration required
    REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
  • Saturday, October 18

    Architecture Photography

    This hands-on workshop is designed for teens interested in exploring the fascinating world of architecture through photography. Participants will learn the basics of architectural photography, including techniques for capturing buildings, bridges and cityscapes during Open House Chicago. Participants will explore key topics such as composition, lighting, perspective and how to find unique angles that highlight architectural details. Phones with cameras are required for this workshop.

    Details

    • Date: Saturday, October 18
    • Duration: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
    • Location: Harold Washington College
    • Cost: FREE; advance registration required
    Registration opens September 22
  • Saturday, November 15

    Reimagining Spaces

    This hands-on urban design workshop will introduce teens to explore how people interact with city spaces. Using sketching, mapping, and movement analysis, participants will walk along a vacant lot amid the city, observe, and then propose improvements. Participants will learn how to “read” the built environment, think like designers, and create proposals for improvements.

    Details

    • Date: Saturday, November 15
    • Duration: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
    • Location: Harold Washington College
    • Cost: FREE; advance registration required
    Registration opens October 20
  • Saturday, December 20

    Glass Architecture

    In this unique workshop, teens will explore the intersection of art, architecture and craftsmanship through the creation of stained glass designs. Participants will learn about the history, materials and techniques involved in creating stained glass windows and how this medium has been used to express both beauty and meaning in architectural spaces. Teens will visit the Chicago Pedway to observe stained glass works of art and then get to create their own!  

    Details

    • Date: Saturday, December 20
    • Duration: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
    • Location: Harold Washington College
    • Cost: FREE; advance registration required
    Registration opens November 17
  • Partner