Mary B. Galvin Recital Hall
Waukegan Steel is known for working on some of the most high-profile projects in the Chicago area, and The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Center for the Musical Arts, the newest addition to the Bienen School of Music, is certainly one of them. Northwestern University’s impressive new structure lies on the scenic coast of Lake Michigan. Waukegan Steel was heavily involved in the project, designing and constructing the Z-shaped building’s entire inner frame.
Waukegan made use of the Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology to create and render the facility as a three dimensional model, meaning that everything was measured out before the ground was broken or a single steel beam was fabricated.
The Center boasts the awe-inspiring Mary B. Galvin Recital Hall: A 40-foot-tall glass wall, made possible by a low-iron curtain revealing the Chicago skyline and providing a beautiful backdrop for the performers on stage. The flowing walls made of African moabi wood provide incredible acoustics. Waukegan worked closely with fellow contractors to design this sturdy, yet elegant, steel structure.
Shirley Welsh Ryan Opera Theatre
Aside from the gorgeous recital hall, one can find the David and Carol McClintock Choral and Recital room, a smaller venue to accommodate student recitals and choir performances. Also to be found at the Center is the Shirley Welsh Ryan Opera Theatre. The Theatre’s expansive windows provide a breathtaking view of Lake Michigan- and the retractable (Yes. Retractable.) seating makes for a versatile space for any performance. Proof of Waukegan Steel’s skill in manufacturing can be seen in their brilliantly crafted contributions to this room- the steel beams, stairs and catwalks.
We are very proud of the work we’ve done on this one. For more information, see Northwestern’s website.