2025 Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Preservation Awards Recognized
Each year, commendable preservation projects across Illinois are honored through the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Preservation Awards. This year, Landmarks Illinois has unveiled the remarkable winners, showcasing a diverse array of projects that exemplify creativity and community commitment.
Exciting Projects Across Various Communities
The nine distinguished projects of 2025 span multiple Illinois communities, including Belvidere, Charleston, Chicago, Granite City, Millstadt, Tinley Park, and Waukegan. These initiatives range from converting unused schools and libraries into affordable housing and museums to meticulous window restorations that enhance cultural landmarks.
Empowering Community Through Preservation
Bonnie McDonald, President & CEO of Landmarks Illinois, expressed, "Our award winners emphasize how preservation can tackle community challenges. Their efforts encourage us to envision how our historical sites can evolve for present-day needs while simultaneously driving local growth and fostering community pride. Their dedication to these projects is commendable, preserving our past for a brighter future."
Meet the 2025 Award Recipients
Among this year's honorees, we have standout projects that demonstrate how preserving and repurposing sites can revitalize communities:
Pearl Place Apartments - Belvidere
This project is a stellar example of adaptive reuse, transforming the historic Garfield School into affordable housing for seniors and veterans. Gorman & Company took charge of restoring this significant building while ensuring it continues to serve the community.
Coles County Courthouse Window Project - Charleston
After two years, Coles County improved its courthouse by replacing 384 aging windows, boosting energy efficiency while enhancing the structure's aesthetic appeal. This remarkable initiative inspired further local economic development and preservation efforts.
Friends of Historic Second Church - Chicago
For nearly two decades, this volunteer group has been dedicated to the preservation of the Second Presbyterian Church. Their fundraising efforts have amassed around $4 million, supporting restoration projects and promoting the church's significant history.
National Public Housing Museum - Chicago
The last standing building of the Jane Addams Homes has been transformed into a dynamic cultural destination that commemorates the history of public housing in the U.S. This important project not only reactivates an iconic site but also honors its cultural legacy.
Pui Tak Center - Chinese Christian Union Church - Chicago
This landmark in Chinatown has seen extensive renovations from the local church community, ensuring the building's historical significance and storytelling capacity for generations.
Edison Ave Art Lofts - Granite City
Transforming the former Tri-County YMCA, this adaptive reuse project created a mixed-use development with affordable housing and community art spaces, celebrating the site’s rich history while addressing local needs.
Friends of the Old Millstadt Water Tower - Millstadt
This community-focused organization championed a grassroots campaign to save and restore their iconic water tower, emphasizing the power of local advocacy and pride in preserving history.
Banging Gavel Brews - Tinley Park
This vibrant venue, set within the historic Karl Vogt Building, revitalizes a key area in town as a brewery and community gathering spot, illustrating the benefits of thoughtful preservation.
Waukegan History Museum at the Carnegie - Waukegan
A beautifully restored library now serves as a museum dedicated to local history, showcasing the architectural significance of the building and enhancing community engagement with the past.
Details of the Awards Ceremony
The 2025 ceremony will be held on November 7 in Chicago, celebrating the hard work and dedication of the winners. This public event invites all to celebrate historic preservation in Illinois, with tickets priced reasonably for members and students. For those unable to attend in person, a virtual viewing option is available.
About Landmarks Illinois
Founded in 1971, Landmarks Illinois is a historic preservation nonprofit organization committed to protecting and revitalizing the state's significant places. Through advocacy, funding, and public engagement, they promote preservation as an effective tool for community revitalization.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Preservation Awards?
This program honors outstanding preservation efforts in Illinois, recognizing projects that contribute to community well-being.
Where will the awards ceremony take place?
The ceremony will be held at Theater on the Lake in Chicago, from 6 to 9 p.m. on November 7.
Are the events open to the public?
Yes, the event is public, with tickets available for both members and non-members.
How can someone become involved with Landmarks Illinois?
Individuals can become members, participate in events, or engage with their community to advocate for preservation.
What types of projects receive awards?
Various projects are recognized, including restorations, adaptations, and community advocacy efforts.
