Jesse James
The course of American history changed with the inauguration of Barack Obama as the first African American President and First Lady of the United States. Nearly 14 years since that moment, a new cultural institution is coming to Chicago’s South Side; The Obama Presidential Center. The structure was designed by Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects and Interactive Design Architects (IDEA).
The building will feature a world-class museum dedicated to the former president’s administration, as well as public art offerings and a new branch of the Chicago Public Library. The Obama Presidential Center will be located at the historic Jackson Park. The 19-acre site has been in the works since 2016, encouraging visitors to “reflect and grow, connect and create; to tap into your own sense of purpose and discover the change you want to make in the world.”
The tall vertical Museum building aims to invoke the feeling of ascension. The levels inside recount Obama’s two terms and his impact. There will also be a recreated oval office and a “We The People” section showcasing his administration’s work in science, innovation, and climate change. At the top of the building is the Sky Room, which offers a panoramic view of the Chicago area.
The Obama Presidential Center is in development and is scheduled to open to the public in the fall of 2025. Take a closer look at the images below and find out more via the institution’s website. In the meantime, keep it locked for more outstanding architecture coming very soon.
Photos via The Obama Foundation
