Bridgeport art center
Bridgeport, Chicago
The Bridgeport Art Center occupies a monumental structure steeped in history and creative energy. Originally built in 1911 as part of the Spiegel Catalog Warehouse—designed by A. S. Alschuler and later expanded in 1922 and 1928—it now spans an impressive 500,000 ft² on a 2.64‑acre lot fronting the South Branch of the Chicago River. Today, this raw industrial treasure chest, revived in 2001, houses over 120 artists’ studios, galleries, a fashion design hub, ceramics workshops, coworking spaces, a café, gym, and even a maritime museum. High-beamed ceilings, exposed brick walls, expansive windows, and scenic river and skyline vistas create a captivating, inspirational setting .
2021 Renovation
1911 Original Build
500,000 SF
Albert S. Alschuler Architect
Bridgeport is a tapestry of old-world charm. Long known for its deep working-class roots and multigenerational homes, today it’s blossomed into a vibrant mosaic of cultures and small businesses. The neighborhood pulses with independent art galleries, eclectic cafés, mom-and-pop restaurants serving everything from pierogi to pozole, and bustling local markets that celebrate its Irish, Italian, Mexican, and Chinese heritage.
V Development Group was instrumental in transforming the workspaces, delivering full-scale electrical and HVAC systems along with meticulous carpentry. Their exceptional craftsmanship and keen attention to detail have elevated the facility into a sophisticated, luxurious environment — enriching the experience for visitors and supporting the growth of small businesses alike.
