The Stone Family Pavilions add a new experience for visitors to the Chicago Botanic Garden, a space for picnicking, gathering, outdoor meetings and formal events all outside the paywall of the Garden. Situated at the edge of the Skokie Lagoon the pavilions offer seating in sun, shade or on the lawn next to the water, all with breathtaking views of the Japanese Island Garden beyond. The pavilions are spare in form with a high floating canopies and perforated backlit ceiling panels. The paved surface continues the traditional Chicago Botanic Garden palette of Limestone and brick. Lushly planted rain gardens frame the edges with “Japanese style” planting on the lawns against the backdrop of Japanese island.

Architect: Wight & Company

Photo Credit: Chris Barrett