Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies

The Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies inhabits a prime location along Michigan Avenue, Chicago's main artery. The bold contemporary design sets it apart from the adjacent 19th-century historic buildings by Daniel Burnham and Louis Sullivan. The new facility for Spertus is a mixed-use program containing exhibition galleries, library, 400-seat multi-use auditorium, college classrooms and administrative offices. It expresses the values of openness, transparency and hospitality. Fundamental to Jewish religious and intellectual traditions is the role of light. The façade is composed of folded glass planes and will glow with light, both natural and man-made, revealing the inner dynamic and energy of the multi-disciplinary programs of this eighty-year old institution (text from architect's website).