Three Arts Club: A Legacy of Women Artists in Chicago
For nearly a century, the Three Arts Club served as a vital sanctuary and residential hub for women pursuing creative excellence in Chicago. By providing dedicated living spaces and a supportive community, the club empowered thousands of female artists to cultivate their craft in an era when such opportunities were often limited.
The Early Years and Expansion
The organization began its journey at 1614 North LaSalle Street. This initial residence was a modest start, featuring a restaurant and enough room to house sixteen women.
As the demand for such a community grew, the club sought a more permanent and expansive home. In 1914, they commissioned the renowned architectural firm Holabird & Roche to design a dedicated facility. The resulting three-story building opened its doors in 1915 at 1300 N. Dearborn Street, significantly increasing its capacity to 92 residence rooms.
A Century of Creative Community
The impact of the Three Arts Club was profound and long-lasting. Throughout its operational history, more than 13,000 women resided within its walls, utilizing the space as a base for their artistic endeavors.
The club maintained its mission of providing residential space for women artists continuously for decades. This era of residency finally came to a close in 2004, when the last remaining residents moved out of the Dearborn Street building.
Transition to the Modern Era
Following the end of its residential phase, the organization pivoted to ensure its legacy continued in a new form. In 2007, the building was sold to developers. The net proceeds from this sale were strategically invested into an operating fund to seed and grow 3Arts, a new nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting artists.
Today, the historic structure at 1300 N. Dearborn Street is owned and operated by Restoration Hardware Chicago.
Key Facts
- Total Residents: Over 13,000 women stayed at the club over its history.
- Architects: The 1915 building was designed by Holabird & Roche.
- Capacity: The Dearborn Street location provided 92 residence rooms.
- Timeline: Residential services were provided continuously until 2004.
- Current Owner: The building is now owned by Restoration Hardware Chicago.
| Location | Opening Year | Capacity/Feature | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1614 North LaSalle Street | Initial | 16 women & restaurant | Former Residence |
| 1300 N. Dearborn Street | 1915 | 92 residence rooms | Now Restoration Hardware |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who designed the Three Arts Club building on Dearborn Street?
The three-story building located at 1300 N. Dearborn Street was designed by the architectural firm Holabird & Roche.
How many women lived at the Three Arts Club over time?
Throughout its history, more than 13,000 women stayed at the club.
When did the club stop providing residential housing?
The Three Arts Club provided residential space continuously until 2004, when the final residents moved out.
What happened to the funds from the sale of the building?
The building was sold in 2007, and the net proceeds were used to create an operating fund to seed and grow the nonprofit organization known as 3Arts.
Who owns the Three Arts Club building today?
The building is currently owned by Restoration Hardware Chicago.