Category: Uncategorized

Women in Architecture: Elisabeth Scott

Posted on by Hunter

Optima® delights in celebrating the visionaries of modern architecture, individuals whose innovative designs have profoundly impacted the spaces we work and inhabit. Among these luminaries is a woman who left a remarkable imprint on her era and the course of modern architecture: Elisabeth Scott. Today, we pay homage to this trailblazer, whose architectural genius transformed the landscape of theater design.

Born in 1898 in the quaint English county of Bournemouth, Scott was nurtured within a family that recognized and fostered her creative prowess. Her odyssey began with her enrollment at the Architectural Association School in London. At the time, it was one of the few institutions breaking the gender barrier by welcoming women into its architecture program.

Proscenium arch within the auditorium building in Chicago. Photo: Wikipedia Commons

Scott’s career had a dramatic turning point when she entered the international competition for the design of the new Shakespeare Memorial Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, now known as the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. At just 29, Scott eclipsed nearly 70 competitors, securing her position as the youngest and the first female architect to clinch an international competition. Her triumphant design broke away from the conventional proscenium arch stage, marking a modernist departure that enhanced the intimate engagement between actors and audiences.

Shakespeare Memorial Theatre. Photo: Steve Knight, Flickr Creative Commons

However, the Shakespeare Memorial Theatre was only the beginning of Scott’s illustrious portfolio. She further honed her architectural craft by designing an array of other significant structures. Among these were the Pier Theatre in Bournemouth, the Fawcett Building for Newnham College in Cambridge, and the Marie Curie Hospital in Hampstead. Each creation was a testament to Scott’s ability to envisage and realize structures that were not only aesthetically pleasing but also served the needs of the greater community.

Fawcett Building, Newnham College. Photo Credit: Architectural Press Archive / RIBA Collections

We’re honored to pay tribute to the remarkable journey and enduring legacy of Elisabeth Scott. She dared to chart her own course in an era when the architectural field was almost exclusively male. Her trailblazing efforts underscored not just her exceptional architectural prowess but also her dedication to empowering society through conscious, innovative design.

The Arthur B. Heurtley House: A Testament to Frank Lloyd Wright’s Design Evolution

Posted on by Hunter

Just a few miles west from Optima Signature®, in the heart of Oak Park, sits a quiet, residential gem that stands as yet another testament to the genius of America’s most iconic architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. This architectural marvel, the Arthur Heurtley House, isn’t just a house, but an embodiment of Wright’s early Prairie School style that continues to endure as a remarkable example of design innovation and integrity.

Constructed in 1902 during a transformative epoch in Wright’s illustrious career, the Heurtley House is an expression of Wright’s creative evolution. The robust brick structure and distinct horizontal orientation lay over the landscape seamlessly, epitomizing Wright’s commitment to designing in sympathy with nature – a signature of his design philosophy.

Arthur B. Heurtley House Floor Plan

Look closer, and the house’s intricate design elements come into sharp focus. The low-pitched hip roof with deep overhangs, the bands of art glass windows, and the central chimney mass all contribute to an emphasis on the home’s horizontality while offering an elegant vertical counterpoint. The material palette – a medley of Roman brick, limestone, and plaster – not only reinforces the building’s robust character but also harmonizes the house with its environment, establishing continuity that is both visually striking and inviting.

Inside, the Heurtley House continues to narrate the story of Wright’s architectural vision. The choice of natural materials, from the art glass windows to wooden trims and panels, exudes a warm, homey charm. The open floor plan, a distinctive characteristic of Wright’s Prairie style, allows a free flow of space and the dining room has a vaulted, wood banded ceiling with a prow shaped bay of art glass and a ribbon of leaded windows facing west, seamlessly inviting a flood of natural light.

Living Room, Arthur B. Heurtley House. Photo: James Caulfield

The interior furnishings, custom-designed by Wright as part of the home’s construction, ensure a consistent aesthetic narrative throughout the house. This meticulously detailed approach, down to the furniture, reveals Wright’s relentless pursuit of architectural harmony and holistic design.

Over a century later, the Arthur Heurtley House continues to shine as a beacon of architectural brilliance and its presence — a tribute to Wright’s vision and the timeless beauty of his Prairie style. As always, we take immense delight in celebrating these iconic modernist structures. They not only enrich our architectural landscape but also provide a rich source of inspiration for our own commitment to design, innovation, and community.

Chicago’s Inaugural NASCAR Street Race Experience

Posted on by Hunter

Chicago is a city of firsts. From constructing the inaugural skyscraper in 1885 to welcoming the first Ferris Wheel at the World’s Columbian Exposition, it now sets the stage for the country’s first-ever NASCAR Cup Series street race. This highly anticipated spectacle promises more than just a 12-turn, 2.2-mile street race; it offers a weekend brimming with music, delectable local cuisines, and endless fun for attendees.

Residents of Optima Signature will only be a short walk away from the action when the race takes over Grant Park from July 1st-2nd, 2023. The carefully curated course runs through Chicago’s downtown streets, immersing visitors in the heart of the city. Starting from the iconic Buckingham Fountain, the race weaves through South Columbus Drive, Michigan Avenue, and South Lake Shore Drive. This route places drivers and visitors adjacent to some of Chicago’s most recognized architectural landmarks, including The Art Institute of Chicago, 333 South Wabash, The Congress Plaza Hotel, and One Museum Park.

The race weekend kicks off on Saturday, July 1st, with The Loop 121, spotlighting NASCAR’s rising stars, followed by the Grant Park 200 on Sunday, July 2, showcasing the biggest names in racing. While the races occupy only parts of each afternoon, artists such as The Chainsmokers, Miranda Lambert, and The Black Crowes are slated to fill the park with music between races.

If you haven’t secured your tickets for this inaugural event, you can find them here. And rest assured, if you’re not among the 50,000 expected attendees for the NASCAR Street Race, Chicago plans to host the races through 2025.

Interior Design Tips to Make Your Apartment a Home

Posted on by Amanda Johnson

Moving into a new apartment is an exciting experience, especially because you have a completely blank canvas to decorate. But for many apartment dwellers, figuring out how to make their space feel like home can be a challenge.

 Whether you’re getting ready to relocate to a new place or want to enhance your current apartment, adding the right decorative touches is the best way to truly make it feel like your own. From maximizing the functionality and style of a small apartment to making every room feel unique, we’ve assembled a list of the best apartment decorating tips to help you get started.

Interior Design Tips to Make Your Apartment a Home

You don’t need a professional interior design consultation to style your next apartment – especially with these tips and tricks up your sleeve. For a comfortable, personalized apartment that would impress even the most skilled interior designers, here’s a go-to guide to our favorite apartment decorating ideas.

Never underestimate the impact of lighting.

From table lamps to floor lamps, the right lighting can completely transform your apartment. Even if your apartment already comes with plenty of built-in lighting features, you may still want to make sure to add your own to enhance the space.

 Almost every room should have at least one table or floor lamp, except for the kitchen and bathrooms (although some interior designers add petite lamps there as well). Make use of plug-in wall sconces so that you don’t have to deal with hardwiring – there are so many stylish, designer-crafted options out there. Floor lamps are ideal for a cozy corner, especially if you choose lamps with a slim profile and minimal footprint.

 Not only does lighting literally brighten your apartment, but it switches up the mood for certain times of day or occasions. Tech-savvy smart bulbs offer options for adjusting the color, brightness, and more, giving you full control. Think elegantly dimmed dining room lighting for a dinner party, a gently glowing bedside lamp for pre-bedtime reading, and a warm, welcoming entryway lamp to greet you after a long day at work.

 Of course, the best way to enjoy a flawlessly lit home is to choose an apartment with ample natural lighting. For example, the floor-to-ceiling windows at Optima Sonoran Village not only offer beautiful views but also let in plenty of sunlight during the daytime hours. What better way to wake up for your morning cardio session than with the Arizona sun gently streaming into your home?

Maximize storage with smart, stylish solutions.

Even if you’ve lived in a large, single-family home, you know that storage is a common frustration – no matter the size of your space. You’ve probably found yourself searching for new ways to add storage space without weighing down the design with unappealing clutter.

 At Optima Sonoran Village, rooms like the kitchen and bathrooms are ready to contain all your necessities with sleek, modern cabinetry. Moving into a thoughtfully designed apartment is the first step you can take towards mastering stylish storage.

 There’s also no shortage of attractive, storage-friendly furniture and design ideas to consider. Prefer to keep your area clean and uncluttered? Built-ins with cabinets or furniture with hidden storage drawers are a great option. For the maximalist who like all of their belongings taking center stage, vertical shelving for the walls adds both storage and personality.

Create “zones” with your furniture, area rugs, and decor.

When you decorate your apartment, the goal should be to aim for both form and function. Not only do you want the space to look great, but you always need it to serve all your needs, whatsoever those may be. Using furniture pieces, rugs, and other elements to divide your home into “zones,” you can make sure it’s being used to its fullest potential.

 Creating zones is particularly useful in open concept designs, like in the residences at Optima Sonoran Village. The kitchen, dining room, and living room all flow into each other, which is an ideal way to create the sense of a space that’s larger than it actually is. At the same time, some people aren’t sure how to begin “using” such an open-ended space.

 But with furniture, you can set up zones that make sense for your lifestyle. Maybe you love to entertain, so you place a large table and comfortable chairs in the dining area. An oversized, easy-to-clean rug will anchor the area and create a soft cushion underfoot. Keeping this approach in mind, you can keep each space connected but also defined.

Incorporate art into your apartment decor.

One of the simplest ways to make your apartment feel like home is with art that speaks to your style. It doesn’t matter whether you prefer contemporary, abstract pieces, traditional and vintage paintings, or even a mix of artistic photography and candid shots of friends and family – if you like it, it should earn a spot in your home.

 Create a focal point with a single large piece of wall art, hang a gallery wall that centers on a specific theme, or scatter framed pieces of all sizes throughout all the rooms. Ultimately, how you use art – and the kind you enjoy – is completely up to you.

Modern Apartment Decor

Decorating an apartment with a modern touch not only keeps your space current and fresh, it also allows for the expression of personal style and taste. This modernist approach provides an aura of sophistication and enhances the overall feel of the apartment, making it so much more than just another place to live.

Apartment Decorating Styles

When it comes to modern apartment design ideas, you have a plethora of style options.

You might consider a minimalist style, focusing on clean lines, simplicity, and functionality. This approach can make your apartment feel spacious, clean, and relaxing. Or, you could opt for an industrial style characterized by exposed brick and metal, giving your space an edgy, urban feel. For those who love a mix of old and new, mid-century modern style might be the best fit, with its timeless aesthetic and elegant simplicity.

Whatever your taste, understanding different decorating styles can help you curate a personalized and cohesive look that truly feels like home.

Decorating Apartment Living Room Ideas

The living room is a pivotal space in any apartment, often serving as a multipurpose area for relaxing, entertaining, and even working. In a modern apartment, you can make use of natural light, neutral colors, and sleek furniture to establish a sophisticated atmosphere.

There are so many modern apartment decorating ideas that you can use as inspiration for your space. Consider adding elements like a plush rug or decorative cushions to provide contrast and comfort. Statement artwork or a striking mirror can serve as a focal point, while unique lighting solutions can be used to create mood and delineate spaces.

Remember, the key is to balance modern aesthetics with comfort and functionality.

Modern Apartment Bedroom Ideas

For your bedroom, you’ll want to create a sanctuary that reflects your personal style yet still adheres to modern design principles. Opt for a minimalist bed frame, perhaps in a warm wood or sleek metal, paired with crisp, clean bedding in neutral tones. A small, chic bedside table can provide practical storage, while a modern floor lamp can offer the perfect lighting for late-night reading. Bold graphic artwork or a large indoor plant can inject life and personality into the room. And remember, a clutter-free space is fundamental to modern design, so consider clever storage solutions that keep your room tidy and serene.

Modern Furniture and Decor

In modern apartment decor, furniture plays a critical role in defining the style of the space. Choose pieces that are streamlined yet comfortable, with clean lines and minimalist aesthetics. Materials like glass, metal, and wood are often found in modern furniture, each contributing to a distinct mood and feel.

As for decor, less is often more. Choose a few key pieces that you love, whether it’s a geometric rug, a sleek coffee table, or a collection of black and white photographs. These items should create visual interest without overwhelming the space. Think about adding pops of color with decorative pillows or vases or bringing a touch of nature indoors with houseplants. And, importantly, consider the lighting in your apartment – it can dramatically transform the space, emphasizing your modern decor and establishing the right atmosphere.

Creating a modern apartment that truly feels like home is a blend of aesthetic choices and personal touches. By understanding different decorating styles, tailoring your living and bedroom decor, and selecting the right modern furniture and accents, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a space that’s uniquely yours. Remember, a well-decorated apartment isn’t just visually appealing – it’s a sanctuary where you’ll create memories and feel completely at ease.

The Scottsdale Apartments You’ll Love Coming Home To

Ultimately, even the best apartment interior design tips won’t be helpful if you’re starting with a space that doesn’t suit your needs. Instead of settling for an apartment that isn’t perfect for you, why not set yourself up for decorating style success by choosing the best apartments for rent in Scottsdale, AZ?

 Optima Sonoran Village is the Valley’s premier luxury rental community, raising the bar for upscale apartment design. With floor plans that range from a streamlined studio to an expansive, three-bedroom apartment with ample room for entertaining, we have something to suit every lifestyle.

 Our smallest studios are more spacious than many other apartments for rent in Phoenix, so you can be confident that you’ll have plenty of room to express yourself with the apartment decor of your choice. Plus, because Optima Sonoran Village boasts designer interiors with thoughtful details and premier finishes, you have a stunning space even before you add decor.

 See our residences for yourself with an in-person tour of our studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments in Scottsdale – it’s the best way to get a feel for what your future home at Optima Sonoran Village will be like. Contact our leasing office to schedule your tour today!

The Writers Theatre in Glencoe

Posted on by Hunter

Tucked in the vibrant downtown of the Glencoe community — just down the road from Optima Verdana®, stands the Writers Theatre, a monument to the creative spirit and architectural prowess. A testament to the convergence of the arts, architecture, and community, the Writers Theatre is a touchstone of cultural life across the North Shore. At Optima®, we share a deep appreciation for such special places that elevate design and aesthetic experiences while enriching the community.

Conceived in 1992, the Writers Theatre was designed to celebrate the raw power and intimacy of the written word. It is a professional theater company that, since its inception, has nurtured a strong commitment to the appreciation of intricate writing and profound performances. This dedication has earned the theatre numerous awards, including the 2016 Regional Theatre Tony Award and being called “America’s finest regional theater company” by The Wall Street Journal.

The current structure, designed by the internationally acclaimed architect Jeanne Gang of Studio Gang Architects, was unveiled in 2016, offering a splendid canvas for the theatre’s vision — to be a socially vibrant venue that redefines the audience-performer interaction. And Gang’s design does just that, by providing a sense of inclusion and participation that blurs the lines between the stage and the audience.

The Writers Theatre’s Alexandra C. & John D. Nichols stage

As you step inside, you’ll notice the theatre houses two stages. The primary Alexandra C. & John D. Nichols stage, accommodating 250 people, captures the essence of a traditional theatre, while the secondary Gillian theatre, a more intimate space, caters to 99 patrons, making each performance a personal experience. Architecturally, the building’s wood truss system is both aesthetically striking and acoustically vital, further enhancing the audience’s experience.

A rooftop pavilion and patrons’ lounge are not just architectural details but social spaces. In essence, the Writers Theatre transcends the function of a theatre, transforming into a hub for community activities and social interaction.

The Writer’s Theatre’s patrons lounge and pavilion, Courtesy of Steve Hall and Hedrich Blessing

Looking into the Writers Theatre’s story, we see an embodiment of Optima®’s values— the fusion of beautiful design, functional spaces, and community enrichment. We take great pride and joy in showcasing gems like the Writers Theatre, a testament to what can be achieved when creative storytelling meets architectural brilliance.

As we celebrate the Writers Theatre and its remarkable journey, we’re reminded of the importance of places that are not just seen, but felt. Spaces that invite you in, captivate your senses, and leave an enduring impression. And at Optima®, we remain committed to creating and appreciating spaces that, like the Writers Theatre, stand as enduring testaments to design, culture, and community. Explore some of their upcoming events and shows here!

Revisiting Gillson Park: Your Perfect Summer Destination

Posted on by Hunter

We don’t just dwell in the realm of innovative, world-class architecture. We also take delight in the allure of the great outdoors, especially those spaces that bring joy to communities. In that spirit, we’re thrilled to introduce you to the picturesque Gillson Park, located on the lakefront, northeast of the iconic Baha’i Temple and only 2 miles from Optima Verdana®, it’s a lively and vibrant oasis located in the charming village of Wilmette.

Gillson is more than your average park. It’s a haven packed with fun, relaxation, and natural splendor. Located on the stunning shores of Lake Michigan, the park is spread over an impressive 60 acres and offers a slew of engaging activities for everyone.

For the beach lovers, Gillson Park features a pristine sandy beach. Sunbathing, swimming, or simply dipping your toes in the cool waters – it’s your personal paradise by the lake. And for those who crave an adrenaline rush, the park’s Sailing Beach provides sailboat rentals to chase the horizon.

Gillson Sailing Beach, Photo: rickdean911, Flickr Creative Commons

Not to mention the fact that the park’s serene landscape adorned with mature trees offers the perfect backdrop for a delightful alfresco meal. And if you’re looking to fire up the grill, the park provides designated picnic and barbeque areas to make your summer cookout a breeze.

For sport enthusiasts, Gillson Park is nothing short of a playground. From volleyball to tennis courts, it’s a haven for friendly competition and fun games. And let’s not forget about the younger visitors – the park houses a fantastic playground and a “Tot Lot” play area, ensuring hours of endless fun for the little ones.

Construction of the Wallace Bowl in Gillson Park, 1937, Courtesy of the
Wilmette Historical Museum

Perhaps one of Gillson Park’s crown jewels is the Wallace Bowl, an outdoor amphitheater that serves as the stage for their Sounds of Summer concert performances, movie nights, and theater performances. 

The natural beauty of the park is another captivating aspect. Walk along the trails, explore the bird habitat, or lose yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Wild Flower garden. Gillson Park’s allure lies in its ability to marry leisure and nature effortlessly.

Wallace Bowl in Gillson Park, 2023, Photo: Wikimedia Commons

As we wind down our exploration of Gillson Park, we remind ourselves that spaces like this encapsulate the essence of community living. They bring us closer to nature, offer a sense of belonging, and provide an array of activities for all ages. Gillson Park is not just a testament to Wilmette’s charming character, but it’s also an invitation for everyone to step out and embrace the summer sun in all of its glory!

Welcome to Ravinia

Posted on by Hunter

Is there magic in the air? Or is that the sound of music blending seamlessly with the winds of a summer breeze? This enchantment comes alive each year as the Ravinia Festival graces the town of Highland Park. At Optima®, we take pride in celebrating local traditions that uplift our community, and the Ravinia Festival, just a 20 minute drive from Optima Verdana, is no exception, offering an annual musical extravaganza that is as unforgettable as it is unique.

The Ravinia Festival, the oldest music festival in the United States, has been an institution since its inception in 1904. It was originally envisioned as an amusement park but quickly evolved into a cultural touchstone, an acoustic paradise that has welcomed a diverse range of artists from the venerable Louis Armstrong to the mesmerizing Janis Joplin.

Beyond its storied history, what truly sets Ravinia apart is its unique approach to concert-going. In lieu of traditional concert hall seating, audiences are invited to bring their own picnics, blankets, and lawn chairs, turning each concert into an outdoor feast and fest of music and camaraderie. Visitors also have the option to enjoy concerts from the BMO Rooftop above the Ravinia Music Box on the north side of the park. It’s not just about the music—it’s about the experience. The festival features indoor and outdoor dining choices at the Park View, Tree Top and Lawn Bar restaurants within the Dining Pavilion and a location for visitors to shop artist merchandise. Underneath the sky adorned with stars, music lovers of all ages share food, laughter, and the collective joy of live performance.

Ravinia Festival Grounds, Photograph: Russell Jenkins

The musical spectrum at Ravinia is broad and all-encompassing. Although the Chicago Symphony Orchestra has been a resident since 1936, a testament to the festival’s commitment to classical music, Ravinia has always embraced a diversity of genres. Jazz, rock, R&B, pop, hip-hop, and folk concerts reverberate through the park, ensuring that every music enthusiast finds their tune.

Yet, Ravinia is not merely a spectator event. It’s also a nurturing ground for the next generation of musicians. Ravinia’s Steans Music is a summer conservatory that provides young professionals with masterclasses, private lessons, and performance opportunities. This fostering of new talent guarantees that Ravinia remains not just a museum of past greatness, but a wellspring of future virtuosos.

We are always thrilled to highlight local venues with rich programming that fosters community, culture, and joy — and Ravinia checks all those boxes. It’s not just a festival, but a grand tradition that transcends the ordinary, offering a summer journey filled with music, memories, and magic. Embracing the richness of this tradition, Optima Verdana is offering 20 residents the exclusive chance to attend Ravinia’s upcoming Santana concert – an exciting preview of what our potential future partnerships with the festival could bring. At Ravinia, every note in the Summer 2023 schedule tells a story, and you won’t want to miss a single one.

The Villa Savoye in Poissy

Posted on by Hunter

At Optima®, we have a deep appreciation for remarkable architectural creations that capture the essence of their time. Today, we voyage to Poissy, France, to explore the famous Villa Savoye – a residence that stands as a symbol of the Modernist movement and a testament to the genius of the Swiss-born architect, Le Corbusier.

Inaugurated in 1931, the Villa Savoye encapsulates Le Corbusier’s vision of what a home should be: a “machine for living,” embodying functionality, form, and harmony with the surrounding environment. Distinctly modern, yet timeless in appeal, Villa Savoye is the quintessential realization of Le Corbusier’s Five Points of Architecture.

The free designing of the ground plan, a central tenet of Le Corbusier’s philosophy, is showcased brilliantly in Villa Savoye. The open layout creates a fluidity of movement within the house, each room transitioning seamlessly into the next. The façade, free from structural constraints, features an elegant composition of horizontal windows, providing abundant natural light and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

The villa also embodies the principle of free design of the façade, resulting in a strikingly minimalist exterior that foregoes decorative excess in favor of simple geometric forms. The ramp and the roof garden, other key aspects of Le Corbusier’s Five Points, add layers of functionality and aesthetic interest. The ramp provides a gentle, processional path through the villa, while the roof garden reclaims the green space sacrificed by the building’s footprint.

Villa Savoye Interior
Interior of Villa Savoye. Photo: Timothy Brown, Flickr Creative Commons

At the heart of this architectural marvel is Le Corbusier’s concept of architectural promenade – the notion that architecture is best experienced moving through space and time. The journey through Villa Savoye is a continuous narrative, each room a chapter, each view a verse, unfolding the poetry of Le Corbusier’s architectural vision.

We revel in the opportunity to celebrate this modernist gem, designed by a pioneer of the movement, Le Corbusier, as an embodiment of innovation, artistic expression, and the timeless human desire for harmony between our creations and the world they inhabit. Just like Villa Savoye, Optima® is committed to creating spaces that respect and enhance their environment, thus contributing to the enduring legacy of architectural excellence.

 

Exploring Wilmette: Chicago Botanic Garden

Posted on by Hunter

Situated just a short drive from Optima Verdana in Wilmette, the Chicago Botanic Garden stands as an architectural testament to the harmonious blend of art, nature, and community. It is a verdant oasis that transcends the traditional boundaries of urban landscaping, offering visitors an unforgettable experience.

This sprawling sanctuary covers an impressive 385 acres, strategically mapped out into 27 distinct gardens and four natural areas. It’s not just a garden; it’s a living canvas where architectural genius and nature’s beauty come together in a vibrant display of community spirit. Strolling through the winding paths reveals the careful landscape curations. The structures dotting the garden offer more than functionality; they’re creative landmarks contributing to a magical environment. From the modern flair of the energy-efficient Regenstein Learning Campus or the timeless elegance of the English Walled Garden’s trellis design, each corner unfurls a tale of architectural innovation.

These architectural marvels are not standalone elements. They enrich the landscape, facilitating coexistence between tranquil spaces like the Japanese Garden and the energetic vibes of the Model Railroad Garden. Such diverse experiences demonstrate the incredible potential when architecture underpins community spaces. It’s a place where families spend sunny afternoons, where friendships blossom over shared plant care tips, and where the community comes together to celebrate the natural beauty that is inherent in the surrounding city. The garden encapsulates the essence of community living – shared spaces that inspire, invigorate, and engage.

The Sensory Garden, Chicago Botanic Garden

In addition to its aesthetic charm and natural beauty, the Chicago Botanic Garden bustles with an array of special events. This summer, visitors can immerse themselves in the Love in Bloom exhibition, a captivating showcase of floral beauty, running until September 24, 2023. The After Buzz Hours offers a unique twist, allowing visitors to chat with garden scientists over cocktails. These events represent just a glimpse into the Garden’s dynamic calendar, which can be fully explored on their official website.

The Chicago Botanic Garden is more than an assortment of plants or an architectural accomplishment. It stands as a beacon of what can be achieved when architecture and nature unite.

Visiting hours are 10 AM to 8 PM daily, with tickets available for purchase on their website.

Chicago Sculpture Spotlight: Ceres by John Bradley Storrs

Posted on by Hunter

At Optima®, we have a keen appreciation for the confluence of form and function in architecture. It is with this sense of admiration that we turn our spotlight to a piece of Chicago’s history that is as breathtaking as it is groundbreaking. This iconic gem, standing sentinel over the city, is none other than the Ceres sculpture, an embodiment of Modernist art and a testament to the vision and talent of Modernist American sculptor, John Bradley Storrs.

Born in Chicago in 1885, John Storrs was a sculptor who left an indelible mark on the world of American Modernism. Schooled at some of the finest art institutions, including the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Académie Julian in Paris, Storrs’ work blends the classical with the modern, and the human with the industrial.

His contribution to the Modernist movement was unique in its ability to bridge contrasting worlds. His work was firmly grounded in the traditional forms of sculpture, yet boldly embraced the dynamism and aesthetic of the burgeoning machine age. His sculptures captured the soul of a society caught in a transformative period with the comforts of the old world, giving way to promises of the new.

John Bradley Storrs. Photo: Chicago History Museum

Perhaps nowhere is this more apparent than in Storrs’s iconic Ceres sculpture. Perched atop the Chicago Board of Trade Building, rising majestically at the southern end of the LaSalle Street canyon, Ceres is a tribute to the Roman goddess of agriculture — a fitting emblem for a building that was home to the largest grain exchange in the United States.

This 31-foot figure, however, is no ordinary depiction of a goddess. Storrs deviated from the typical portrayal of deities in classical realism. Instead, he rendered her in a form that was abstract and streamlined, reflecting the popular Art Deco style of the 1930s. This faceless figure, devoid of any discernible features, was a deliberate departure from tradition. Storrs recognized that from the ground, the details of Ceres’s face would be lost. In response, he sought to create a silhouette, an impression, something that would be striking against the backdrop of the Chicago skyline.

 

Initially, the abstract representation of Ceres drew mixed reactions. However, over the years, it has come to be celebrated as an integral part of Chicago’s architectural landscape — a symbol of the city and a beacon of the Art Deco era.

We are endlessly fascinated by the harmonious architectural aesthetics and symbolic functionality found in Ceres. This beloved Chicago icon remains a timeless testament to Storrs’ profound creativity, encapsulating the spirit of Modernism, standing as a monument to an era that dared to redefine the rules of art and architecture.

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