Structural Engineer: Thornton Tomesetti
MEP Engineer: RL Millies
Theater Consultant: Schuler Shook
Acoustical Consultant: Talaske
A/V Consultant: Talaske
Lookingglass Theatre Company is now in residence in the historic Water Tower Pumping Station, one of the few structures to survive the Chicago Fire of 1871. The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs invited Lookingglass, a professional company producing shows in Chicago for the past 37 years, to move into this high profile landmark on Michigan Avenue. This gave Lookingglass its first permanent home in the functioning Pumping Station.
The project involved the conversion of existing space within this landmark to a flexible, black box performance facility housing two theaters. It also contains associated public and performer support space such as lobbies, dressing rooms and concession areas. The main stage allows Lookingglass to reconfigure the stage and audience seating as dictated by the needs of each production, allowing for a maximum capacity of 247 persons, 60 of whom may be seated at the balcony level. There is a workshop studio space used for small productions, special events, classes, rehearsals and meetings.
The door in the North facade was recreated based on original historic document research by the architect.