Architecture, Light, and Community in the City Mies Chose..
Join the Mies van der Rohe Society for our annual Hilb's Day Celebration, a festive afternoon of architectural exploration, conversation, and holiday cheer in the heart of downtown Chicago.
As the city approaches the winter solstice, we gather to honor the legacy of Ludwig Hilberseimer, Mies van der Rohe's colleague, collaborator, and fellow visionary, whose ideas about urban planning, daylight, and the human experience continue to shape how we understand the modern city. Along the way, we'll celebrate Chicago's remarkable architectural heritage and the enduring influence of Mies and Hilberseimer on the buildings and urban spaces we enjoy today.
An Architectural Journey Through Chicago
The afternoon unfolds through three landmark destinations, each revealing a different chapter of Chicago's architectural story.
The Monadnock Building
Time: 3:00 PM
Location: 53 W. Jackson Boulevard
Renowned Chicago Cultural Historian Tim Samuelson will explore why this pioneering skyscraper captivated Mies van der Rohe and helped inspire his lifelong admiration for Chicago. The Monadnock's bold simplicity and structural clarity offer an intriguing lens through which to understand Mies's own architectural evolution.
Federal Center and U.S. Post Office Plaza
Time: 4:00 PM
Location: 17 S. Clark Street
Architect Robert Theel, FAIA, will guide guests through one of Mies's most significant civic works. As we traverse the Federal Center Plaza, experience the dialogue between architecture, public space, and art, including Alexander Calder's monumental Flamingo, while learning how Mies envisioned a modern urban center for Chicago.
The Berghoff Restaurant
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: 17 W. Adams Street
The celebration concludes at one of Chicago's most beloved historic gathering places. Join fellow architects, preservationists, students, and friends of the Society for seasonal refreshments, conversation, and a festive toast celebrating Hilb's Day, the return of light, and Chicago's rich architectural legacy.
A Chicago Tradition
More than an architectural walk, Hilb's Day is an opportunity to connect with a community united by a shared appreciation for design, culture, preservation, and the city that inspired Mies and Hilberseimer.
Whether you are a longtime admirer of modern architecture, a student beginning your exploration, or simply curious about Chicago's built environment, Hilb's Day offers a memorable and accessible experience rooted in discovery and fellowship.
Special Event Offer
Your $100 registration includes:
Admission to the full Hilb's Day program
Holiday reception at The Berghoff; cash bar
A one-year membership in the newly independent Mies van der Rohe Society
A combined value of more than $200.