Just steps from Optima Verdana®, Elmwood Dunes Preserve is a green space that serves as a living classroom and testament to what community involvement can achieve. We’re thrilled to support this event and encourage residents to participate in a meaningful day of stewardship.
Join Friends of Elmwood Dunes at the preserve (Elmwood Avenue, Wilmette) for a hands‑on workday on Thursday, August 7, 2025, dedicated to habitat restoration. All are welcome—from beginners to seasoned volunteers. Come prepared to dig in, make connections, and leave your mark—helping preserve Wilmette’s natural heritage and bringing people together in service of nature.
Remove invasive shrubs that threaten native plant communities
Clear brush and maintain pathways
Sustain the integrity of the restored dune and swale ecosystem
Elmwood Dunes Preserve is Wilmette’s last natural bluff-and-dune ecosystem, restored over several years with the help of community volunteers. Today, it’s home to over 50 native plant species and serves as habitat for migratory birds and endangered flora.
This stewardship workday continues that legacy—reclaiming the space from invasive species and strengthening its ecological resilience into the future.
What to Expect This two-hour workday offers:
A fulfilling outdoor activity under the morning sun
A chance to learn about local ecology and conservation practices
A community of fellow nature lovers, working toward a shared goal
An invitation to return as the seasons change (other upcoming workdays: September 11, etc.)
Quick Info Summer Stewardship Workday Date & Time: Thursday, August 7, 2025, 8:00 am – 10:00am Location: Elmwood Dunes Preserve (Elmwood Avenue, Wilmette) Hosted by: Friends of Elmwood Dunes & Wilmette Park District What to Bring: Gloves, water, long pants, closed-toe shoes (tools provided)
Come explore, serve, and celebrate this beautiful preserve. Bring friends or family, or sign up for future stewardship days—let’s make this summer both restorative and impactful.
At Optima®, we’re proud to be an integral part of Chicago, a city whose grand landmarks and marquee attractions also offer a quieter layer of civic storytelling—one that lives not in guidebooks, but on the corners of our daily routes. Look up as you stroll through neighborhoods like Bronzeville, Pilsen, or Andersonville, and you may spot a green-and-white street sign with an extra name perched above the official one: Honorary John Doe Way, Honorary Sister Mary Johnson Avenue, or Honorary Mr. G’s Corner. These signs are small in scale but monumental in meaning.
They’re part of one of Chicago’s most heartfelt hidden gems—an unassuming tradition that honors the people who have helped shape the soul of the city. Unlike statues or plaques, honorary street signs don’t draw crowds or headlines. They blend into the cityscape, quietly reminding us that greatness often begins at the block level.
So, how does someone come to be recognized with an honorary street sign? Who gets to join this constellation of civic recognition? It’s not about celebrity or wealth—it’s about service, vision, and making a tangible difference in the lives of others. The process, like the program itself, is rooted in neighborhood pride, grassroots initiative, and a deep love for the people who make Chicago what it is.
What Is an Honorary Street Sign? Before diving into the process, it’s important to note that these tributes are honorary. The signs don’t change a street’s official name or mailing address. Instead, they mark a stretch of road—typically one or two blocks long—as a commemorative space. They serve as visible, public reminders of people who have shaped their communities in meaningful ways.
Step 1: Make Your Case The first step is having someone—often a family member, friend, community organization, or local alderperson—propose the idea. The nominee must have a strong connection to Chicago and a history of service or achievement. While many honorees are well-known, the program also celebrates local heroes: educators, volunteers, faith leaders, and others who might not be famous, but are deeply admired in their neighborhoods.
A general rule of thumb: the honoree should be someone whose contributions reflect positively on the city and whose name on a sign would inspire civic pride.
Step 2: Gather Support
Next, the proposer needs to gather community support. This often includes letters from residents, business owners, schools, or religious institutions in the area where the honorary street would be installed. These letters help demonstrate that the honoree is respected, appreciated, and deserving of public recognition.
In some cases, a petition may be circulated to collect signatures from neighbors and local stakeholders. This step reinforces the idea that the sign isn’t just a symbolic gesture—it’s a tribute endorsed by the community.
Step 3: Work With the Alderman
Every Chicago ward has an alderperson who serves as the elected representative on City Council. The proposal for an honorary street must go through the alderman whose ward includes the proposed location. If the alderman supports the initiative, they’ll sponsor a formal ordinance to bring before the City Council.
Often, the honoree or their supporters work with the alderman’s office to determine an appropriate location for the sign—usually near the honoree’s home, workplace, or site of community impact.
Step 4: City Council Approval
Once the ordinance is introduced, it goes to the City Council Committee on Transportation and Public Way for consideration. If approved, it moves on to the full City Council for a final vote.
These ordinances are typically passed without controversy—especially when they’re backed by strong community support and championed by a local alderman.
Step 5: The Sign Goes Up Once approved, the city’s Department of Transportation installs the honorary sign. A small dedication ceremony may follow, often attended by the honoree (if living), their family, and members of the community. It’s a moment of celebration—an intersection between personal legacy and public space.
More Than a Name Chicago’s honorary street names form a patchwork of personal histories stitched into the urban fabric. They mark the places where ordinary people have done extraordinary things—where music was played, meals were served, minds were shaped, and lives were lifted.
Getting a street named after you in Chicago is more than an honor. It’s a signpost of memory, a landmark of gratitude, and a permanent part of a city that never forgets the people who make it great.
Want to learn more about the rich history of Chicago’s honorary street signs? Check out the Honorary Chicago website!
At Optima®, we are deeply inspired by the timeless tenets of Modernism—principles that extend far beyond architecture and into the realms of sculpture, painting, and design. Few artists embody these ideals as poetically and powerfully as Andrea Cascella, an Italian sculptor and architect whose work explored the relationship between material, form, and space with reverence and restraint.
Born in Pescara, Italy, in 1919 into a family of painters, Andrea Cascella inherited an early love for the arts—but it was stone, not canvas, that would become his lifelong medium. He trained initially as a painter before shifting his focus to sculpture, finding in the tactile solidity of marble and granite a path to express something elemental and enduring. Like many Modernist pioneers, Cascella sought to pare down his forms to their essential qualities, allowing material and proportion to speak volumes without ornamentation.
Cascella’s mature work is perhaps best understood through the lens of architectural integration. Much like the vision behind Optima®’s buildings—where form, function, and landscape are in constant dialogue—Cascella conceived of his sculptures not just as isolated objects, but as living components of space. His large-scale works are often placed outdoors, engaging directly with their environment. Whether positioned in a civic plaza or within a natural landscape, his sculptures encourage viewers to move around them, to observe the interplay of light, shadow, and scale from every angle.
This is particularly evident in his most iconic works, such as the Monumento ai Caduti di Kindu in Pisa, created in 1966 to commemorate the Italian aviators killed in the Congo. The monument’s geometric abstraction, constructed in pink granite and shaped like a massive horizontal arch, communicates solemnity and reverence without relying on figuration. The structure’s clean lines and precise engineering exemplify Cascella’s deep belief in Modernist ideals: that simplicity, material truth, and spatial awareness could convey meaning more powerfully than symbolism alone.
Cascella’s art aligns with a broader European post-war effort to redefine beauty and public life through the language of Modernism. His aesthetic is akin to that of architects like Carlo Scarpa and designers like Alvar Aalto—those who found spiritual resonance in tactile surfaces and honest craftsmanship. He was also part of a broader artistic movement in Italy that sought to recover and reinterpret ancient materials—like travertine and basalt—within a modernist vocabulary, affirming continuity between past and present.
This philosophy resonates strongly at Optima®, where architecture is not a backdrop but an active participant in daily life. Just as Cascella’s stone works invite interaction and contemplation, our spaces are designed to support seamless movement, dynamic light, and emotional connection. The relationship between natural materials and modern forms—a signature of both Cascella’s sculptures and Optima®’s residences—is key to creating environments that feel at once grounded and forward-looking.
Cascella passed away in 1990, but his work continues to stand as a quiet force across Italy and beyond. In public parks, cultural institutions, and civic plazas, his sculptures remain meditative, monumental, and unmistakably modern. They remind us that beauty can be both austere and generous, and that Modernism—far from being a historical style—is a living ethos.
At Optima®, we are proud to celebrate artists like Andrea Cascella, whose work expands the vocabulary of Modernism and continues to shape the way we see, feel, and inhabit space. His legacy is a powerful reminder that thoughtful design—whether architectural or sculptural—has the power to elevate everyday life.
At Optima®, we believe architecture is more than a physical framework—it’s a philosophy that invites openness, transcends boundaries, and honors the intersection of global ideas. That belief echoes in the legacy of Swami Vivekananda, a figure whose time in Chicago helped usher in a new era of interfaith dialogue, spiritual inquiry, and cultural understanding. Much like the buildings we create—spaces designed for light, clarity, and connection—Vivekananda’s message brought ancient wisdom into the modern world with elegance and intention.
In the long and colorful history of Chicago, few moments have been as spiritually transformative—or as globally resonant—as a speech delivered in 1893 by a young Hindu monk from India. Standing before a crowd at the World’s Parliament of Religions, Swami Vivekananda opened his remarks with five simple words: “Sisters and brothers of America.”
What followed was a thunderous standing ovation, a moment of cultural connection so profound that it would echo far beyond the hall where he spoke. That address not only marked the West’s formal introduction to Hinduism—it signaled the beginning of a new era in global interfaith dialogue.
The Parliament of Religions: A Turning Point Held in conjunction with the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, the Parliament of Religions was the first formal gathering of representatives from the world’s major faiths. It was envisioned as a celebration of spiritual diversity, but for many in attendance, it also reinforced Eurocentric ideas about religion and progress.
Enter Swami Vivekananda, a 30-year-old monk in saffron robes, who had traveled from India with little more than conviction and a deep knowledge of Vedanta philosophy. Though virtually unknown when he arrived, Vivekananda quickly captivated audiences with his eloquence, humility, and message of spiritual unity.
In his speech, he emphasized the ancient Hindu ideals of tolerance, pluralism, and the universality of truth. “We believe not only in universal toleration,” he declared, “but we accept all religions as true.” This radical idea—that no single faith holds a monopoly on truth—was as startling to some as it was inspiring to others.
Chicago as the Gateway Chicago was more than just the setting for Vivekananda’s speech—it was the launchpad for his global influence. After the Parliament, he remained in the city for several months, supported by local patrons who offered lodging and helped organize lectures. He gave talks in homes, churches, and halls throughout the city, deepening his engagement with Western audiences hungry for alternative approaches to spirituality.
During his time in Chicago, Vivekananda made a deliberate effort to bridge Eastern and Western thought. He spoke of the Atman (the inner self), of karma and rebirth, but also of ethics, service, and compassion in ways that resonated with both intellectuals and laypeople. He demystified Hinduism not by watering it down, but by connecting its ancient wisdom to universal human experience.
Chicago, with its industrial muscle and cultural ambition, became an unlikely home for a spiritual revolution. From here, Vivekananda would go on to tour other parts of the U.S. and Europe, but his time in Chicago laid the foundation. It gave him a platform—and more importantly, it gave the West a new way to understand the East.
Legacy in the Modern World Swami Vivekananda’s visit changed the Western understanding of religion itself. He was one of the first to articulate the idea that spirituality could be experiential, rather than dogmatic. His teachings influenced generations of thinkers, including Aldous Huxley, Joseph Campbell, and even leaders of the American civil rights movement.
Today, Chicago continues to honor his legacy. A plaque at the Art Institute of Chicago commemorates his speech. Across the city and beyond, yoga centers, interfaith dialogues, and global spiritual movements still trace their roots back to that singular moment in 1893.
A Global Voice Born in Silence Swami Vivekananda’s message began in meditative silence on the banks of the Ganges—but it found its voice in Chicago. In a city known for building skyscrapers and railroads, he built something else entirely: a bridge of understanding between East and West, body and soul, self and world.
At Optima®, we celebrate that same spirit of interconnectedness—across cultures, disciplines, and design philosophies. Just as Vivekananda invited the world to see unity in difference, we continue to craft spaces that bring people together in light, openness, and shared humanity. His words still resonate, reminding us that sometimes the most enduring monuments are not made of stone—but of speech, spirit, and the courageous act of imagining a more unified world.
When summer arrives in Chicago, the city’s parks and plazas transform into living stages—inviting neighbors, families, and theater lovers to share in a uniquely local tradition: outdoor performances under the stars. From Shakespearean comedies to circus-inspired spectacles, this year’s lineup is as diverse as it is delightful. Even better? Most shows are free.
For residents of Optima® communities—whether you’re catching a performance steps from Optima Signature® in Streeterville, enjoying a lakeside evening near Optima Lakeview®, or planning a city night out from Optima Verdana® in Wilmette—Chicago’s outdoor theater scene is the perfect way to engage with the city’s cultural vibrancy. Here are the standout productions of Summer 2025:
Midsommer Flight’s twelfth season brings a lively take on Shakespeare’s tale of a king and his court who vow to renounce love—until a group of witty women tests their resolve. Performed in natural light, with no amplification, the show feels at once intimate and immediate. You’ll find them at Nichols Park, Gross Park, Kelvyn Park, Winnemac Park, and Touhy Park. Bring a blanket, snacks, and your sense of humor. Free and perfect for an impromptu neighborhood evening.
In a brisk 45-minute format, this whimsical adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream is ideal for families. Stops include Navy Pier, Wicker Park Fest, Ping Tom Park, Garfield Park, and Rainbow Beach. With so many performances across the city, there’s likely one just a short ride from any Optima® community. Don’t miss this dreamlike, mobile theater experience. Free.
Porchlight’s fifth annual series brings Broadway’s greatest hits to your local park, featuring numbers from Hamilton, The Wiz, Hello, Dolly!, and more. With performances in Welles Park, Portage Park, Ping Tom Park, and Northcenter Town Square, this musical revue is a crowd-pleaser within walking or biking distance for many Optima residents. Free.
A queen. Pirates. Dancing. Set against the lush natural backdrop of Lake Forest Open Lands, this family-friendly outdoor musical blends adventure and whimsy. Tickets are $20—a worthwhile outing for families at Optima Verdana® seeking a North Shore performance under the stars.
A circus-inspired, early childhood performance about a magical librarian and her book cart, followed by interactive workshops. Designed for children under five, this free program is part of Goodman Theatre’s “100 Free Acts of Theater” series and is a charming daytime option for families at Optima Lakeview® or Optima Signature®.
For one unforgettable night, Millennium Park fills with music from hit shows like Parade, Hell’s Kitchen, and MJ the Musical. It’s the ultimate sampler of Broadway energy—just steps from home for residents of Optima Signature®. Free.
A playful fusion of theater, circus arts, and magic, this wordless, all-ages show is part of the Chicago Park District’s “Night Out in the Parks.” Performances at Seneca Park (just two blocks from Optima Signature®), Gill Park, and beyond make this a must-see for kids and grown-ups alike. Free.
A free outdoor Shakespeare production in the western suburbs, complete with a preshow puppet show. A fun excursion for Optima Verdana® residents looking to round out the summer with more Shakespeare—and a little suburban magic. Free.
A City-Wide Celebration of Storytelling Chicago’s outdoor theater season reflects what makes this city extraordinary: neighborhood spirit, cultural accessibility, and the joy of shared experience. For Optima® residents across Chicago and Wilmette, these productions are more than just entertainment—they’re invitations to connect with the city, your community, and the stories that shape us all.
In the heart of North Scottsdale, where rugged mountains meet expansive desert skies, Optima McDowell Mountain® redefines what it means to live well. Thoughtfully designed and rooted in the principles of Modernism, the apartment residences at 7220 Optima McDowell Mountain® offer sanctuary.
Every element of these rental residences is guided by the Optima® vision: beautiful, functional, and deeply attuned to the natural environment. Here, design serves a higher purpose—elevating daily life, inviting connection, and capturing the singular serenity of desert living.
Modern Architecture Meets Timeless Comfort
From the moment you enter an apartment residence, you’re greeted by expansive views framed by floor-to-ceiling windows, which draw the outside in and flood each home with natural light. Clean lines and open layouts create a sense of calm and flow, while generous private terraces extend living spaces into the open air—perfect for sunrise coffee or sunset contemplation.
Spacious primary bedroom at 7220 Optima McDowell Mountain® with expansive views
Thoughtful Interiors Designed for Living Well
Each apartment is a masterclass in materials and modern elegance. Luxurious plank flooring, high ceilings, and modern lighting set a sophisticated tone, while contemporary cabinetry, quartz countertops, and full-tile backsplashes bring polish and function to the kitchens. Kitchen islands with pendant lighting make the space both a showpiece and a gathering place—ideal for quiet nights in or entertaining guests. In every room, the finishes are intentional, the layouts intuitive. Walk-in closets, full-size washers and dryers, and smart home-ready wiring offer the practical comforts of a well-appointed home—without ever sacrificing style.
Smart Design, Seamless Living
Beyond aesthetics, these apartments are designed to support a truly modern lifestyle. Each unit is equipped with energy-efficient appliances, including stainless steel refrigerators, dishwashers, and ranges, blending performance with sleek design. USB outlets, central climate control, and ample storage make every detail of life a little easier and more enjoyable.
In select units, double vanities, separate soaking tubs, and upgraded appliance packages take everyday luxury to the next level—providing elevated options for those seeking even more refinement in their surroundings.
A Home That Reflects the Landscape
Optima McDowell Mountain® is deeply informed by its desert setting, and that connection to place is woven into every residence. From the natural color palettes to the expansive views of the McDowell Mountains, the design philosophy honors the land—bringing harmony between home and environment.
Life, Elevated
More than just a beautiful place to live, the apartments at 7220 Optima McDowell Mountain offer access to a lifestyle shaped by wellness, convenience, and community. With immediate access to the tower’s exceptional amenities—including a rooftop Olympic-length pool, indoor/outdoor fitness center, and tranquil lounge areas—residents experience the best of both private retreat and social connection.
At Optima McDowell Mountain®, apartment living becomes something extraordinary. It’s where architecture uplifts, where design serves the soul, and where home feels like a natural extension of your best life.
Interested in renting? To explore available floor plans or schedule a private tour, visit our site here.
Set against the striking backdrop of the McDowell Mountains in North Scottsdale, Optima McDowell Mountain® offers lifestyle defined by innovation, wellness, and design. While the architectural elegance of the community draws the eye, it’s the curated amenities that truly elevate everyday living into an experience of resort-inspired comfort.
At Optima®, amenities are integral to the way we think about community, connection, and quality of life. And at Optima McDowell Mountain®, that philosophy comes alive in thoughtful spaces that blend function, beauty, and a deep respect for the desert surroundings.
A Rooftop Retreat Above It All
At the crown of the apartment tower, a spectacular rooftop sky deck welcomes residents with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and sunsets that paint the sky in colors only the Sonoran Desert can offer. Up here, the resort-style lap pool and spa offer a tranquil place to unwind, whether you’re swimming at sunrise or enjoying an evening soak under the stars. Shaded lounging areas, plush seating, and fire pits make the rooftop an ideal gathering place year-round.
Bike trails connect Optima McDowell Mountain@ to its spectacular desert setting
Wellness and Performance, Reimagined
Inside, residents have access to an expansive indoor/outdoor fitness center, thoughtfully equipped with top-tier cardio and strength-training equipment. Surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows and opening to fresh desert air, the space fosters motivation, movement, and mindfulness. There’s even a dedicated yoga and stretching area—perfect for solo practice or following along with a virtual session in a serene setting.
Social Spaces that Spark Connection
Beyond fitness, Optima McDowell Mountain® is rich with opportunities for relaxation and recreation. The clubroom and game room bring residents together over billiards, cards, or casual conversation. Whether you’re hosting friends or meeting neighbors, these spaces are designed to feel both luxurious and welcoming—an extension of your private residence.
An Oasis for Pets, Too
Recognizing that pets are part of the family, Optima McDowell Mountain® also features a fully equipped pet spa, making it easy to care for your furry companions after an afternoon trail walk or playtime in one of Scottsdale’s many nearby parks.
Design That Enhances Daily Living
Throughout the apartment tower, intentional design is everywhere. From indoor and outdoor lounge areas to tranquil garden spaces that nod to Optima’s signature love of nature and biophilic design, the environment is crafted to feel like a seamless continuation of the landscape. Even utilitarian elements like the package room and on-site bike storage are elevated through smart design and accessibility.
A Natural Extension of the Optima® Ethos
The amenities at Optima McDowell Mountain® reflect more than just luxury—they represent a lifestyle deeply aligned with Optima’s core principles: wellness, community, and architectural beauty. Here, every element is curated not just for convenience, but for the sheer joy of living well.
For residents of the apartment tower, these amenities create a rhythm of life that’s as restorative as it is inspiring—offering space to breathe, move, connect, and thrive, every single day.To learn more or schedule a tour, visit our site here.
At the heart of American Modernism, there’s a powerful throughline—one that threads from classroom to gallery, from Bauhaus roots to bold American reinvention. Cranbrook Art Museum’s current exhibition, Eventually Everything Connects: Mid-Century Modern Design in the U.S., illuminates that lineage with grace, depth, and resonance. For those familiar with Optima®’s architectural ethos, the exhibition reads like a love letter to the movement that inspired it—an affirmation that Modernism is not just history, but a living, breathing influence on how we build and live today.
The exhibition takes its title from a famous Charles Eames quote—apt, given that Eames and his wife Ray are central figures in both the show and the broader Cranbrook legacy. As Optima® readers know from past explorations of design history, Charles Eames studied architecture at Cranbrook and later taught there, absorbing and transmitting the school’s experimental spirit. In fact, many of the visionaries featured in Eventually Everything Connects—Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia, and Eero Saarinen among them—passed through the doors of this Michigan-based institution before reshaping American design forever.
Herman Miller’s Lounge Chair Wood (LCW) designed by Charles Eames and Ray Kaiser Eames. Original public domain image from Saint Louis Art Museum.
Curated with a reverent yet contemporary eye, the exhibition is more than a retrospective—it’s a sensory map of how ideas traveled, evolved, and ultimately converged to shape the Mid-Century Modern aesthetic. Furniture, textiles, ceramics, and graphic design pieces sit alongside architectural models and immersive digital storytelling. The result is a tapestry of influence—one that echoes in the clean lines and honest materials of Optima® communities, from the desert forms of Optima McDowell Mountain® to the lush, elevated designs of Optima Lakeview® in Chicago.
One of the show’s strengths lies in how it foregrounds the network of mentorship and collaboration that defined the era. Florence Knoll’s revolutionary approach to spatial planning, for example, is shown in conversation with Eliel and Eero Saarinen’s architectural philosophy—both deeply rooted in Cranbrook’s pedagogical DNA. Harry Bertoia’s sculptural experimentation, so present in his iconic chairs and sound sculptures, emerges as a counterpoint to the rigorous geometry of Herbert Matter’s photography and Ray Eames’ textile work.
This interdisciplinary cross-pollination is something Optima® has long championed. As we’ve explored in previous posts, the company’s founder, David Hovey Sr., FAIA, drew from these very ideas—bringing together structure, landscape, interiors, and lifestyle into a cohesive vision. At Optima®, the architect is not only the builder, but the planner, developer, and often, the designer of the furniture and finishes themselves. It’s a spirit lifted directly from Cranbrook’s holistic approach.
Eventually Everything Connects also serves as a timely reminder of Modernism’s social ambition. Many of the objects on display—like mass-produced modular furniture or Bauhaus-influenced graphics—emerged from a belief in accessible, democratic design. That ethos continues in Optima®’s own work today, particularly in the integration of nature, wellness, and community across properties. The idea that beautiful design should enhance everyday life isn’t just an aesthetic—it’s a mission.
For visitors, the exhibition isn’t simply a walk through time; it’s an invitation to reconsider the spaces we inhabit today. As we stand inside the clean volumes and sunlit courtyards of Optima Verdana® or admire the breezeways and outdoor corridors of Optima Signature® , we feel the resonance of these mid-century ideals made modern once again.
In short, Eventually Everything Connects is more than an exhibition—it’s a mirror held up to a movement that continues to shape how we live and dream. For those who call an Optima® community home—or for anyone inspired by the ongoing legacy of Modernist design—it’s a pilgrimage well worth making.
The exhibition runs through September 21, 2025. Information about visiting the Cranbrook Museum, curated tours, special events, and the 400-page exhibition book published with Phaidon can be found here.
In a city celebrated for its architectural legacy, few elements are as enduring and evocative as the humble brick. It’s the material that literally built Chicago—layer by layer, block by block—and continues to tell stories of resilience, craftsmanship, and community. Enter the “Brick of Chicago” Tour, a captivating journey through the city’s neighborhoods that reexamines architecture not just as structure, but as cultural memory.
Led by Chicagoan Will Quam, a self-professed “brick enthusiast” and architectural educator, the “Brick of Chicago” Tour invites participants to walk through the city’s streets with fresh eyes. Quam’s passion for masonry is contagious; what begins as a lesson in material science becomes a deeper meditation on history, artistry, and the city’s ever-evolving identity. Whether it’s the bold polychrome patterns of terra cotta from the early 20th century or the subtle color variations in reclaimed Chicago Commons brick, the tour brings a tactile beauty to the urban landscape—one that many passersby might otherwise overlook.
@brickofchicago. A close up of green glazed bricks on N Western Avenue, Humboldt Park.
Chicago’s reputation as an architectural capital is often tied to its steel-frame skyscrapers, Prairie School residences, and Modernist icons. But the “Brick of Chicago” Tour shifts the spotlight to the more granular, often unsung artistry of masonry. Along the way, participants learn about the origins of the clay, the evolution of kiln technology, and the cultural forces that shaped the look and feel of entire neighborhoods.
For residents of Optima Lakeview® and Optima Signature®, the tour offers more than a historical curiosity—it’s a reminder of how texture and materiality continue to shape life in Chicago today. Optima’s own design ethos, while rooted in modernism, shares a reverence for the expressive power of building materials. While Optima’s architecture often emphasizes glass, steel, and lush greenery, it exists in dialogue with the historic palette of the city—recognizing that innovation thrives when it honors context.
At Optima Lakeview®, residents live in a neighborhood that wears its brickwork proudly. From the traditional greystone flats to the repurposed industrial buildings, Lakeview tells a story of layered time—one that pairs seamlessly with Optima’s forward-thinking design. Just blocks away, the tour explores how the city’s historic brickyards contributed to the reddish hue that still defines many of the area’s façades.
Meanwhile, in Streeterville, Optima Signature® rises as a beacon of contemporary living—soaring glass, sweeping views, and cutting-edge amenities. And yet, even here, surrounded by the gleaming skyline, the surrounding architecture pays tribute to the city’s brick heritage. From the nearby Water Tower’s limestone resilience to the classic façades of Northwestern’s law school buildings, the balance between old and new remains a defining Chicago principle.
In a sense, the “Brick of Chicago” Tour isn’t just about buildings. It’s about seeing. It’s about developing an eye for detail, an appreciation for labor, and a love for the quiet stories embedded in walls. For Optima residents—many of whom are drawn to design, urban living, and a sense of place—it’s the perfect way to deepen their connection to the city they call home.
Chicago’s bricks may be fixed in place, but the stories they tell are alive, vibrant, and endlessly revealing. Whether you’re a longtime architecture buff or a curious city dweller, this tour proves that sometimes, the most fascinating views aren’t up in the skyline—but right there at eye level.
About the Walking Tours The Brick of Chicago walking tours are immersive, neighborhood-specific explorations that invite participants to see familiar streets through a new lens. Led by founder Will Quam, each tour focuses on the rich variety of brickwork, revealing how materials, patterns, and colors tell the story of Chicago’s development.
Tour options rotate seasonally and include neighborhoods like Lakeview, Logan Square, Wicker Park, and the West Side, each offering its own architectural character. Whether you’re marveling at a row of glazed brick apartments from the 1920s or decoding the subtle shifts in color across a century-old façade, you’ll come away with a newfound appreciation for the artistry hidden in plain sight.
Tours are typically 90 minutes to two hours long, with easy walking routes designed for all levels of curiosity and mobility. Dates and locations vary throughout the spring, summer, and fall, and tickets can be reserved in advance through the Brick of Chicago website.
In the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, where desert skies glow golden and creativity thrives on every corner, a cherished tradition unfolds each Thursday evening: the Scottsdale ArtWalk. From 7:00 to 9:00 PM, galleries along Main Street and Marshall Way open their doors for a weekly celebration of art, music, conversation, and community. Known as “America’s original ArtWalk,” this longstanding event offers more than just an opportunity to browse—it offers a way to truly engage with the cultural soul of the city.
For residents of nearby Optima® communities—Optima Sonoran Village®, Optima Kierland Apartments®, and Optima McDowell Mountain®—ArtWalk isn’t just a once-in-a-while outing. It’s an extension of home, one of the many ways in which living at Optima means being seamlessly connected to Scottsdale’s dynamic arts and culture scene.
This free and open-to-the-public event invites residents and visitors alike to stroll through the galleries that line Main Street and Marshall Way, many of which open their doors with special exhibitions, artist receptions, live music, and refreshments. The ambiance is casual yet electric, as art lovers mingle with painters, sculptors, and photographers, all against a backdrop of palm trees, desert skies, and glowing streetlamps.
Scottsdale ArtWalk Facebook
A Tradition of Creativity
First launched in 1975 by the Scottsdale Gallery Association and the City of Scottsdale, the ArtWalk was envisioned as a way to make the city’s growing art scene more accessible. It quickly became a cultural cornerstone, drawing not only collectors but also families, tourists, and curious passersby. Today, it remains one of the longest-running weekly art events in the country—proof of Scottsdale’s deep-rooted commitment to the arts.
Each Thursday offers something new. Galleries rotate exhibits often, spotlighting everything from contemporary desert landscapes to Native American crafts, Western bronze sculptures to avant-garde installations. This ever-changing mix ensures that no two ArtWalks feel quite the same.
The Scene and the Setting
The Scottsdale Arts District itself is a draw, boasting some of the most respected galleries in the Southwest. Whether you’re stepping into the serene world of landscape painting at Bonner David Galleries or discovering bold mixed-media pieces at Wilde Meyer, the district offers a curated range of visual experiences. Bronze statues line the sidewalks, local musicians set the mood with acoustic guitar or jazz saxophone, and horse-drawn carriages sometimes pass by, adding a romantic, nostalgic note.
Visitors can pause for a glass of wine at one of the nearby tasting rooms or enjoy dinner at a local favorite like The Mission or Café Monarch before or after their walk. The ArtWalk isn’t just about viewing art—it’s about savoring an evening out in one of the most charming corners of the city.
A Cultural Hub for All
Part of what makes the Scottsdale ArtWalk so special is its inclusive spirit. While it certainly attracts collectors and connoisseurs, it just as warmly welcomes those who simply enjoy the act of looking. Kids point excitedly at sculptures, couples linger in doorways, and solo strollers find inspiration in quiet corners. For all who attend, it’s an effortless midweek outing—one that blends the sophistication of a gallery visit with the laid-back joy of a desert evening walk.
Plan Your Visit Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking to do something different on a Thursday night, the Scottsdale ArtWalk offers an experience that’s both timeless and fresh. The galleries are open year-round, and while every week is special, the Scottsdale Gallery Association also organizes themed “Gold Palette ArtWalks” several times a year, featuring added attractions like live painting, food samplings, or cultural performances.
In a city that honors its history while embracing innovation, the Scottsdale ArtWalk is a perfect expression of that spirit—where art meets air, and everyone’s invited to take it all in.
