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, March 22

    Design a city: Planning with Purpose 

    Dive into the world of urban planning and community design in this interactive workshop for teens. Work collaboratively to develop a shared vision for a city and explore how neighborhoods can become more inclusive and resilient. Through real-world examples and hands-on problem-solving, participants will address local challenges, design at the scale of neighborhoods and streets and create a manifesto for values-driven design. Discover how cities reflect our collective values and how you can help shape their future.

    Details

    • Date: Saturday, March 22
    • Duration: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
    • Location: Harold Washington College
    • Cost: FREE; advance registration required

  • Saturday, April 19

    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
  • Saturday, May 17

    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
  • Saturday, June 21

    Architecture Acoustics

    Discover how architecture shapes the way we hear the world! This hands-on workshop dives into the fascinating field of architectural acoustics, where science and design come together to create spaces that sound amazing. Whether you’re into architecture, music, science, or design, this workshop offers an exciting way to learn, create, and explore how sound transforms the spaces we live and play in. 

    Details

    • Date: Saturday, June 21
    • Duration: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
    • Location: Harold Washington College
    • Cost: FREE; advance registration required
    Registration coming soon
  • Saturday, July 19

    Next Level LEGO

    Unleash your creativity and engineering skills in this hands-on workshop designed for teens who love LEGO! Participants will engage in guided challenges, from designing intricate structures to creating functional machines. You’ll learn techniques for building sturdy models, experiment with storytelling through LEGO scenes, and collaborate on group projects. This workshop is perfect for anyone looking to express themselves, develop problem-solving skills, and have fun in a supportive and inspiring environment.

    Details

    • Date: Saturday, July 19
    • Duration: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
    • Location: Chicago Architecture Center
    • Cost: FREE; advance registration required
    Registration coming soon
  • Saturday, August 16

    Exploring Chicago: Maps and City Design 

    Join us for an exciting, hands-on workshop where you’ll explore the fascinating world of maps, architecture and the rich design history of Chicago! Whether you’re a budding architect, cartographer or simply curious about how cities are shaped, this workshop offers an immersive experience of the urban landscape of Chicago. This workshop is perfect for teens interested in architecture, design, urban studies, or simply learning more about the city they call home.  

    Details

    • Date: Saturday, August 16
    • Duration: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
    • Location: Harold Washington College
    • Cost: FREE; advance registration required
    Registration coming soon
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