Art Institute of Chicago

Modern Wing Bookstore / Cafe

A Balcony Bookstore Cafe

Overlooking the expansive vistas of Griffin Court, a 1,500-square-foot Balcony Bookstore Cafe is a place for visitors to pause and relax along their path. Its location connects the upper level of the original main museum with the new Modern Wing and its adjacency is next to new architecture and design galleries. The Cafe incorporates a coffee/espresso bar surrounded by books on art, design, architecture and culture with an expanded selection of magazines and other impulse merchandise. Natural light fills the space and Sparks has based the design on the idea of floating elements in a space that contains ample neutral zones meant to be visually restive and light for people gathering, watching and conversation. This interstitial space serves as a place to gather thoughts, brief relaxation and for taking in the grand ‘street’ within the new building.