The American Writers Museum (AWM) will be settling into 180 North Michigan Avenue after more than two years of seeking a prime location for its Chicago home. The museum is slated to open in early 2017.
Location was favored due to its proximity to hotels, residential buildings, universities, cultural attractions, Millennium Park, and public transportation.
Jonathan Metzl, corporate managing director at Savills Studley, involved in the deal, exclusively told Illinois Real Estate Journal that he feels honored to be a part of the project because it’s an important institution for the City of Chicago.
“It was exciting to find a location in the center of the city’s cultural mile, which extends from the Chicago River to the Museum Campus along Michigan Avenue,” he said. “We considered several options in the West Loop and were able to successfully complete lease terms at 180 N. Michigan.”
Showcasing the personal stories and literary works of diverse American writers, from Mark Twain to Dr. Seuss, the interactive, high-tech museum is expected to draw up to 120,000 visitors annually.
The museum’s esteemed curating team and National Advisory Council are working closely with internationally renowned museum and exhibit companies in the museum’s development. AWM is also collaborating with 50 authors’ homes and museums around the U.S. – now AWM Affiliates – that will support its mission with author-specific knowledge and expertise and foster an exchange of ideas and experiences.
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel believes AWM will be a strong addition to the city’s diverse landscape of museums and cultural institutions.
“I enthusiastically support the efforts to place a national writers museum in Chicago,” he said. “Such a museum will complement the rich offerings of the city’s theaters, museums, libraries, and musical activities and adds significantly to Chicago’s vitality.”
The museum’s themed galleries, interactive exhibits, educational programs, and special events will change regularly to continually surprise and engage visitors of all ages.
The American Writers Museum is the culmination of O’Hagan’s vision, and has garnered the enthusiastic support of scholars, publishers, writers, universities, booksellers, and others.
