OVERVIEW

A gem of a building, Yerkes Observatory is nestled on 48 acres and overlooks beautiful Geneva Lake. In 2020 the University of Chicago transferred ownership of the facility to the Yerkes Future Foundation, a preservation group that plans to restore, refurbish and reopen the historic research center.

Built in the 1890s, our goal is to keep the historic value of the property while updating and restoring its amazing beauty and character. Approaching this project in phases allows for a quicker opening to the public; restoration and improvements can then continue.

Abacus Architects is offering project management, design services and facility review of the Yerkes Observatory, home of the largest refracting telescope in the world. The intent of this project is to reopen the facility, offering similar uses as before with updated accessibility, life safety and technology. The improvements will allow more people to have access and open up the possibility of using the facility, and its Olmsted-designed grounds, in a multitude of ways.