Okpara House
The transformation of a typical Chicago two-story brick building into a center for design, dialogue, and creative research.
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.
Info
Location: Humboldt Park, Chicago
Client: Okpara House
Progress/Year: 2022-Ongoing
Team
Structural Engineer: Rockey Structures
Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Engineer: EdiFel Designs
Owner’s Representative: The Nascent Group
312-598-1567
info@future-firm.org
226 S. Wabash Ave. Ste 500
Chicago, IL 60604
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