Building a Masterpiece
While we wait for plumbing to be installed, let's meet the team of designers and architects that are making this dream a reality. First, the Architects. Meet David Burns and John Morris of Morris Architects Planners. We began working with them back in 2016 and contracted our agreement on July 14th, at their offices downtown. You might know their work from Steppenwolf or Lookingglass Theater, and our neighbor on Clark Street, the Black Ensemble Theater. They are the number one theater builders in the city, and we knew that if we wanted excellence, we would have make an introduction.
John and Don signing the agreement to construct the Chicago Magic Lounge
John and David began work on a feasibility plan, and it lead to this, one of the earliest drafts of the theater. Notice the different shape of the bar, and location of the kitchen. Very different that what we ended up with.
An almost unrecognizable early draft of the floor plan.
We made a trip out to NYC to become inspired by design elements of speakeasy type bars. Around a table in the Ritz in Central Park, we developed many ideas about the layout, and special needs of our secret entrances. We also saw the space come to life with our first set of renderings presented to us by the Morris team.
Yes, there were cards on the table.
I think Bath Tub Gin was where we were most "inspired".
It was soon after, back in Chicago, that we met our interior Designer, Ami Kahalekulu with Twofold Studio. She is the one behind the elegant finishes, the color schemes, and the overall look and feel of the new Lounge.
Going over carpet and fabric samples.
As the design came to a close, it was time to find someone to build it. When shopping for the right builder, we found a talented young team who was hungry, eager, and passionate about joining our crew to build this beautiful theater. Lo Destro Construction joined us, and then led us into the next phase of this endeavor.
At the Lo Destro offices signing our agreement.
There are a few more members working behind the scenes, but I wanted to introduce our core. Our team is a strong one, and we are working every day to make this theater come to life. I've never worked with a crew like this, and it's humbling to watch these experts create something out of nothing. What began as a concept for a new way to present a magic show, has lead to something truly amazing. Keep tuning in, and I'll keep sharing the progress, but just know, that the best heads, hearts, and hands that we could find in Chicago, are in charge for now.
Toasting to a completed stage design for the cabaret.