‘The 19,000-square-foot facility is the last of four new boathouses and river launches created by the Chicago Park District to reclaim the Chicago River as a major system of parks and water-based recreation. The design, incorporating alternating roof trusses, was inspired by the rhythm and motion of rowing.
“There’s a Nordic feel to this,” observes Ginn. “It has a playfulness of bringing aspects of a boat into the design.”
The zinc used is 100 percent recyclable with a potential life span of 100 years or more. This choice of material aptly expresses the intent of conservation in regard to the river itself.”
“Known for such projects as the Aqua Tower and the WMS Boathouse, award-winning architect Jeanne Gang believes that architecture should encourage social interactions.”