Chicago City Wire

The Art Institute of Chicago has announced plans for the Grainger Center for Conservation and Science, marking its first purpose-built conservation center in the museum’s history. This project represents the most significant renovation of conservation space at the institution in more than 25 years.

Since appointing its first paintings conservator in 1956, the museum’s conservation team has expanded to include 40 specialists across twelve fields. The new Grainger Center aims to provide advanced facilities that support their work in preserving and researching the museum’s collection.

“This is the most important update and enhancement in conservation science at the Art Institute since the establishment of the department 70 years ago,” said Francesca Casadio, vice president and Grainger Executive Director, Conservation and Science. “This will allow us to elevate our research and enhance care for the collection, but also bring visitors in on the processes and the work we do every day. We are thankful to the Grainger Foundation, whose exceptional philanthropy has supported our advancements in conservation and science, our staff, and technology over the last several decades, and now is making this next major step possible.”

A permanent gallery within the new center will showcase innovations in conservation for visitors. The design allows guests to observe conservators at work through a rotating series of exhibitions focused on conservation practices.

Barozzi Veiga, an architecture firm known for cultural projects worldwide, will design a 25,000-square-foot facility—more than doubling current integrated space for collaborative work among conservators. The center will be located within existing museum space, which means some galleries will move and collections may be redistributed as part of a broader campus evolution intended to improve visitor experience.

“Our conservation team is truly a center of excellence, and their expertise and dedication ensures that the work our visitors love is cared for and maintained for generations to come,” said James Rondeau, Eloise W. Martin President and Director of the Art Institute. “This investment is essential to continue fulfilling our mission, and it is thrilling to be able to embark on it from a place of fiscal health and sustainability. Having raised more than $225 million for the museum’s endowment, we are in a strong position to begin this ambitious project and future campus enhancements.”

Construction on the Grainger Center is expected to start this spring with an opening scheduled for fall 2027. Barozzi Veiga will collaborate with Interactive Design Architects and Samuel Anderson Architects during construction.