International Living Future Institute

The story of the Keller Center begins with a 55-year-old enduring piece of architecture. Its façade weathered, the infrastructure was at the end of useful life, but it had sturdy foundations with good structural bones. The University of Chicago saw the value of this historic building and paired the shared values of Farr Associates with the Harris School of Public Policy. A thoughtful transformation of the building retains and celebrates Stone’s signature design; decorative engravings wrapping the slender encircling columns, white concrete perforated canopy, and limestone facade to create an encompassing experience. New passages erode the monumental plinth leading to glass insertions nested in the limestone. The glass entries provide a more welcoming experience and views to the warm glow of copper ceilings within. Photo Courtesy of Farr Associates