Learn from professionals and build architecture skills in our free, twice monthly workshops. Open to students in grades 9-12, with the option to join single sessions or explore all offerings.
Teen Saturday Studios
Teen Saturday Studios offers free 3-hour workshops for high school students (grades 9-12) who are interested in exploring the worlds of architecture, construction, engineering and design. Themed sessions are supported by professionals, offering hands-on opportunities to build skills alongside experts in the field.
Locations and additional details are noted in the individual session descriptions below.
Schedule & Registration
Workshops take place on two Saturdays every month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. unless otherwise noted.
Registration for each session opens monthly. Participants enroll by individual session but are encouraged to return throughout the year.
Stained Glass
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: Chicago Architecture Center 111 E Wacker Dr. Chicago IL, 60601
- Cost: FREE; advance registration required
Registration now open
Construction Management 101
Learn the basics of construction project management with an industry professional! This workshop will cover project lifecycle, budgeting, scheduling and the digital tools that help get the job done. Our expert will also lead simulations to develop leadership skills that teens can use both on and off the work site.
Details
- Date: Saturday, December 20
- Duration: 11a.m. - 2 p.m.
- Location: Dawson Technical Institute, 3901 S State St, Chicago, IL 60609
- Cost: FREE; advance registration required
Registration now open
Brick by Brick
From walls to walkways, humans have been building with stone and brick for millennia.
In this interactive workshop, participants will explore the practical applications of these versatile materials, learn the basics of masonry and practice building with bricks in a hands-on project guided by a professional in the field.
Details
- Date: Saturday, May 23
- Duration: 11 AM - 2 PM
- Location: Pullman Tech Workshop, 11314 S Front Ave., Chicago, IL 60628
- Cost: FREE; registration required
Chicago Brick Design
Explore the stories behind Chicago’s brick buildings in this interactive workshop led by Brick of Chicago.
Participants will explore how these building materials shape our city, including a walking tour highlighting brick architectural features and design elements throughout Chicago.
Details
- Date: Saturday, May 30
- Duration: 11 AM - 2 PM
- Location: Harold Washington College, 30 E Lake St, Chicago, IL 60601
- Cost: FREE; registration required
Next Level LEGO
Unleash creativity and engineering skills in this workshop designed for teens who love LEGO!
A professional designer will lead guided challenges, from designing intricate structures to creating functional machines. Participants will practice techniques for building sturdy models, experiment with storytelling and collaborate with teams.
Details
- Date: Saturday, June 20
- Duration: 11 AM - 2 PM
- Location: Chicago Architecture Center Design Studio, 111 E Wacker Dr. Chicago IL, 60601
- Cost: FREE; registration required
REGISTRATIONS OPEN SOON
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Introduction to Carpentry
In this hands-on workshop, participants will receive a crash course in basic carpentry techniques including measuring, cutting, tool safety and blueprint reading from a skilled instructor and then complete a small take-home project.
If you’re interested in a career in construction or just enjoy working with your hands, this workshop is for you!
Details
- Date: TBD (originally scheduled for January 24)
Support
If you find our programs valuable, please consider donating to the CAC to help cover some or all of a program fee.
CAC's Teen Saturday Studio program is a part of the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Youth Learning Programs.
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