Art in Motion, located in Chicago’s South Side Grand Crossing neighborhood, transforms a 120,000-square-foot industrial building—formerly an ice plant and paper factory—into a vibrant creative-arts high school. The school hosts programs in visual arts, music, digital media, dance, and literary arts.

To overcome the building’s original lack of natural light, the design introduces three courtyards, flooding the interior with daylight and fresh air. These courtyards serve as gathering spaces, connecting creative programs like theater, dance, and visual arts to the outdoors.

The industrial character of the building is preserved, with exposed steel structures and 19-foot ceilings, all enhanced by abundant natural light. "Main Street," a central circulation spine, links academic and creative spaces, with windows allowing light to flow through, inspiring collaboration and creativity.

Here, light becomes more than design—it nurtures growth and artistic expression.

Photo Credits: Tom Harris