Ever wondered about the story etched in these stones before you? We are standing at the Former Lincoln School Entrance. It is more than just an old entrance. It is a portal to Chicago’s educational history.
Abraham Lincoln Elementary School, established in 1871, has been a cornerstone of the Lincoln Park community for over 135 years. Imagine children streaming through this very entrance. Their minds were eager for knowledge. This school has seen generations pass.
In 1894, the school expanded. Again in 1937, it grew to accommodate the growing student body. By 2013, the school housed over 800 students. Its ideal capacity was only 650.
The Chicago-based architects Muller+Muller were selected for another expansion project. They faced a unique challenge. The school resided in a landmark district. They needed to honor the existing structure. They also needed to add a modern touch.
They matched the brick, terra cotta, limestone, and dark bronze metal of the original building. But they also incorporated dichroic glass to highlight the rooftop play area. This dichroic glass is special. It transmits and reflects light. It produces a brilliant color shift when viewed at different angles.
Nicholas Micheels, Project Architect at Muller+Muller, explained the choice. He said the dichroic glass added playfulness. It rendered vibrant colors onto the exterior surfaces.
The structure now strikes a balance. It blends historical and contemporary elements. The dichroic glass adds intrigue from street level. It also adds unmatched appeal to the children’s play area.
Nicholas enjoys working with dichroic glass. He says its behavior isn’t immediately obvious. One pane can yield different results. It depends on the viewing angle. This makes the experience engaging. It fills the area with color.
Although this was the first use of dichroic glass on a Chicago Public School, its popularity is growing. It modernizes building facades.
So, as you stand here at the Former Lincoln School Entrance, remember the legacy of education. Remember the blend of history and innovation. And imagine the vibrant colors dancing on the rooftop play area. It is a testament to Chicago’s commitment to its children. It is a commitment to its future.