Learn from professionals in the field and develop valuable skills. Participants grades 9-12 are welcome to enroll in individual sessions, though are encouraged to experience the scope of opportunities.
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.
Culinary Architecture: Gingerbread City
Whether you're a baking enthusiast, aspiring architect, or simply love getting creative with food, our gingerbread architecture workshop is sure to delight and inspire. From cottages to modern masterpieces, learn how to incorporate symmetry, balance, and creativity into your gingerbread creations. Join us for a memorable experience filled with laughter, creativity, and plenty of festive cheer!
Details
- Date: Saturday, December 21
- Duration: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
- Location: Harold Washington College, 30 E Lake St.
- Cost: FREE; advance registration required
This session is sold out
To be placed on the waitlist, please email caclearning@architecture.org with the session date/s you are interested in.
Skyline Sketching with Ryan Chester
Dive into the world of urban art with our Skyline Sketching workshop! In this hands-on session, teens will explore techniques for capturing cityscapes and skylines. Guided by architect and artist, Ryan Chester, participants will learn perspective, shading, and composition to bring their skyline drawings to life.
Details
- Date: Saturday, January 18
- Duration: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
- Location: Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E Wacker Dr.
- Cost: FREE; advance registration required
Architecture CGI
Learn about architecture visualization in this unique workshop for teens interested in architecture and digital design. Learn to use CGI to transform architectural concepts into stunning, lifelike images and animations. Throughout this workshop, you’ll explore 3D modeling, texturing, lighting and rendering techniques to bring your architecture ideas to life.
Details
- Date: Saturday, February 15
- Duration: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
- Location: Harold Washington College
- Cost: FREE; advance registration required
Registration coming soon
Design a city: Urban Planning
Explore the world of urban planning in this hands-on workshop for teens. Learn how cities function, grow, and thrive by studying transportation, green spaces and zoning. Through real-world examples and problem-solving challenges, participants will discover how cities shape our lives and how to help create more inclusive and resilient communities.
Details
- Date: Saturday, March 22
- Duration: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
- Location: Harold Washington College
- Cost: FREE; advance registration required
Registration coming soon
Miniature Marvels: Model Making
Dive into the art of miniature model making in this hands-on workshop for teens. Learn to design detailed architectural models, create tiny furniture, or build imaginative miniature worlds. No experience is needed—just bring your creativity! This program will guide you step-by-step, and by the end, you’ll take home your own handcrafted miniature model along with the skills to keep designing at home.
Details
- Date: Saturday, April 19
- Duration: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
- Location: Harold Washington College
- Cost: FREE; advance registration required
Registration coming soon
Model Making and Design
Explore the art and science of creating architecture structures, characters, and scenes using a variety of materials and techniques. Whether you’re interested in architecture, diorama building, or crafting your own imaginative worlds, this workshop will give you the tools and inspiration to bring your ideas to life.
Details
- Date: Saturday, May 17
- Duration: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
- Location: Harold Washington College
- Cost: FREE; advance registration required
Registration coming soon
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