In May through December of 2017, North Park University’s beloved music facility, Hanson Hall, will undergo a comprehensive renovation, and re-open for the spring semester 2018.
In addition to a completely updated interior, with re-configurations of practice rooms and faculty studios, as well as an impressive vaulted concept in Hanson Hall 23 (soon to be Hanson Hall 202), the project will include three key features:
- climate control,
- acoustical treatment of all rooms,
- and an elevator, creating 100% accessibility for our students, faculty, staff, and guests.
The lead architect, Bill Ketchum of Stantec, also led the design efforts for North Park’s Johnson Center for Science and Community Life, as well as for the new building project at the Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago’s Lincoln Square neighborhood. He and his colleagues are bringing a breadth of expertise and creativity to the project. Carl Balsam, North Park’s Executive Vice President, is leading the project for the institution.
Craig Johnson, Dean of the School of Music, Art, and Theatre, states that the project will be a “huge boost for the music program, as well as recognition of the historical importance of music and the arts in the North Park community.”
In early spring 2018, a special event will take place to celebrate the Hanson re-opening.
Images by Stantec Architecture Inc.