Preservation Expo Returns May 18 with Historic Resources, Landmark Awards

Chicago's most outstanding historic preservation projects and a noteworthy practitioner will be presented with Preservation Excellence Awards at the third annual Chicago Preservation Expo, scheduled for 4-7 p.m. on Monday, May 18, at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St.

Held as part of Preservation Month across the United States, the awards are the centerpiece of the free event that convenes approximately 40 preservation-oriented exhibitors and service providers that help to maintain Chicago's historic buildings, landscapes, and related resources.

"The Expo is a great way to showcase Chicago's most capable preservation practitioners and project managers to share insights and celebrate the city's architecture and history well into the future," Department of Planning and Development (DPD) Commissioner Ciere Boatright said.

The 26th edition of the Preservation Excellence Awards will conclude the Expo starting at 6 p.m. The awardees were reviewed and approved by the Commission on Chicago Landmarks' Permit Review Committee and selected by DPD's Historic Preservation Division staff. WGN television personality Ana Belaval will serve as emcee.

The 2026 awardees for outstanding restoration, rehabilitation, adaptive re-use and new construction projects include:

• Aragon Ballroom, 1106 W. Lawrence Ave., Uptown

• Continental and Commercial National Bank Building, 208 S. LaSalle St., Loop

• Ludlow Typograph Co. Building, 2032 N. Clybourn Ave., Lincoln Park

• Morton Salt Co. Warehouse Complex, 1357 N. Elston Ave., West Town

• Muddy Waters House, 4339 S. Lake Park Ave., Kenwood

• Perkins-Nordine House, 6106 N. Kenmore Ave., Edgewater

• Roberts Temple Church of God in Christ, 4021 S. State St., Grand Boulevard

• 1000 S. Michigan Ave., Loop
• 1330 E. Hyde Park Blvd., Kenwood

Also, Chicago preservationist Carla Bruni will be honored with the Preservation Advocacy Award, bestowed annually for individuals who make significant contributions to the city's preservation needs and opportunities.

Admission to the Expo is free and registration is open now.

For a list of exhibitors and details on the Preservation Excellence Award winning projects, visit the Chicago Preservation Expo website.

Download PDF of award winners.