The Workshop plans community-oriented performing arts center at 3741 W. Lawrence

The Workshop is planning a community-oriented performing arts and gathering space at 3741 W. Lawrence. Located midblock, the property is currently occupied by a 100+-year-old building that would be renovated into the home of this new local hub.

Designed by Future Firm, The Workshop will serve as a multifaceted hub for arts and culture. Nestled within the walls of a 100+ year-old building, the concept includes rehearsal studios, commercial space for local businesses such as a café and instrument repair shop, and flexible event and performance space. The building would be served by two car parking spaces and six bike parking spaces. 

The Workshop aspires to be a catalyst for economic development, revitalizing a quiet stretch of Lawrence Avenue. The project demonstrates a commitment to equity by supporting BIPOC-led small businesses and arts nonprofits through affordable leases and tenant improvement funds, contributing to the enrichment and vibrancy of the local cultural landscape.

The current zoning would limit the capacity of the space to 149 people; limit what kind of restaurant could be co-located for the gathering space and/or what kinds of refreshments could be served during performances; and would foreclose the possibility of incorporating complementary uses/businesses such as a recording studio. To allow for the scope of the project, the team is looking to rezone the property from B1-2 to C1-2.

The $1.8 million project will be financed with a combination of City and philanthropic grants, personal equity, a seller note to help acquire the property, conventional debt for construction and permanent financing, potentially additional investor equity, and ideally an allocation of TIF. So far, the development has been awarded $400,000 in city grant funding from the Equitable Transit-Oriented Development Program and $100,000 from the Chicago Community Trust Predevelopment Program.