Prentice Women's Hospital Update

As reported in August, the Bertrand Goldberg-designed Prentice Women's Hospital in Chicago was under threat of demolition from Northwestern University, which wanted to tear it down to build new facilities for cancer research. Mayor Rahm Emanuel—who, along with the Chicago Commission on Public Landmarks, had long delayed any official stance on the project—threw his support toward Northwestern two days before Landmarks voted on the building's future. The Commission unanimously supported landmark status for the innovative cloverleaf-shaped concrete building, only to rescind their ruling one hour later upon taking the mayor's official position into account.

But that is not the end of the story. The above took place on November 1, but two weeks later preservation groups filed a lawsuit against the hasty ruling; a judge granted a stay that protects the building from demolition until the case is resolved. Two weeks after the ruling also saw the awarding of the Chicago Architectural Club's "Future Prentice" competition (mentioned in this magazine's August 28 edition). The winning scheme by Cyril Marsollier and Wallo Villacorta, pictured, embraces the concrete original in a glass addition, also reworking the base upon which Goldberg's building sits. An exhibition of winners and selected entries is on display at the Chicago Architectural Foundation. Will the competition and exhibition have an impact on the building's future? Check back for further developments.