Okpara House
Location: Humboldt Park, Chicago
Client: Okpara House
Scope: Architecture
Progress/Year: 2022 - In Progress
Client: Okpara House
Scope: Architecture
Progress/Year: 2022 - In Progress
Ọkpara House is a cultural center for Igbo and Nigerian content with a focus on asserting the relevance of Igbo culture on contemporary lifestyles and rituals. Ọkpara in the Igbo language is a name associated with the eldest son and a de facto leader of his community. The goal of the project is to establish a flagship location for reimagining Igbo traditions through design, dialogue, and research. Additionally, the renovation of an existing two-story masonry building will provide flexible spaces for multiple uses in two existing buildings. The design aims to activate and beautify the public street through exterior façade renovation. In addition to immediate renovation plans, Future Firm collaborated with the client to create a long-term campus plan to support future institutional growth which will provide a welcoming space for the community with a unique cultural aesthetic identity.