Published
Fri, Apr 14, 2023, 13:20
- All seven members of the Commission on Chicago Landmarks voted in favour at yesterday's hearing—but the process is far from over.
Chicago officials have voted to grant preliminary landmark protection to the building once home to legendary club The Warehouse.
All seven members of the Chicago Landmark Commission voted in favour at the hearing yesterday, April 13th. If granted, the status will protect the historic building from demolition.
Members of the commission agreed to hear arguments for and against the proposal after more than 13,000 people signed a petition. According to architectural conservation group Preservation Chicago, dozens of people from all over the world also sent letters of support.
That said, this is just the first hurdle. The process will take months, with a final verdict expected in June. The building's current owners, law firm Nathan & Kaminiski, were present at the hearing. A representative said the firm is "not looking to impede anything of cultural significance."
Opened in 1977, The Warehouse is considered to be the birthplace of house music. Frankie Knuckles was its first musical director. Revisit this feature on the club from 2012.
We'll continue to report on this story as it develops.