Chicago Review of Architecture Launches Call for New Voices NOW

UPDATE: The upcoming Chicago Review of Architecture is urgently seeking fresh perspectives on the city’s built environment as it prepares for launch next year. This initiative, led by notable architecture critics Kate Wagner, Anjulie Rao, and Zach Mortice, aims to amplify younger voices in a field often dominated by established narratives.

As cities grapple with rapid changes, the magazine’s first issue plans to tackle pivotal topics including the transformation of the downtown Thompson Center into Google’s Chicago headquarters and the ongoing controversies surrounding the Obama Presidential Center. These developments are not just architectural; they touch on pressing social issues like gentrification and community displacement.

“Architecture is not just about buildings; it’s about who gets to inhabit spaces,” Wagner stated at an event on November 5, 2025. The publication is expected to challenge traditional architecture criticism by infusing humor into its writing, breaking away from the often serious tone of the field. Rao emphasized the need for “erudite, humorous, and hyperlocal writing,” aiming to make architecture accessible and engaging to a broader audience.

The editorial team is soon launching a call for submissions, seeking contributions from diverse voices across the region. “We want new perspectives from people who have lived experiences in these neighborhoods,” Rao explained. This approach aims to offer insight into local issues, including the implications of new sports stadiums for teams like the Chicago Bears and the White Sox.

In a city marked by segregation, Wagner highlighted the importance of revisiting how architecture reflects and impacts social dynamics. “What does it mean for a city to be segregated, and how does that shape our built environment?” she questioned. The goal is to reopen debates that have become stagnant and explore architecture’s role in societal change.

The team’s vision includes innovative storytelling formats, such as community-led tours. “Imagine if residents of Englewood could guide tours before the Obama Center opens,” Rao said, envisioning a platform for locals to share their knowledge and experiences. This participatory model seeks to democratize discussions around architecture, allowing everyday voices to shape the narrative.

As the Chicago Review of Architecture gears up for its launch, it promises to be a vital space for dialogue about the built environment, urbanism, and the intricate social politics surrounding them. This is a developing story that invites everyone to contribute and engage with the future of architecture in Chicago.

Stay tuned for more updates as the editorial team prepares to unveil their first issue, and consider how you might add your voice to this critical conversation.