This historic Italianate mansion was built in 1876 as a residence for the William Waller family, who acquired the property from George Dunlap, an executive with the Northwestern Railroad. The Wallers built in a neighborhood that had been destroyed by the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. By the time the Palette & Chisel acquired the property in 1921, it had become a rooming house for musicians, nurses, milliners, and others.
The first floor features two renovated gallery rooms, a stunning dining room and a library and kitchen area that now displays a permanent art collection. The second floor houses several private studios and a drawing studio. The third floor is for painters, providing great natural light for up to 20 artists at a time. The coach house has several private studios and a sculpture studio. And recently restored Victorian gardens line the courtyard and front of the building.
Visitor Experience
Guests are invited to explore the building and grounds, including a Chicago-themed exhibition in the first-floor gallery. Common areas will be open to the public, and many private studio renters will open their studios as well. In addition, several P&C members will be painting, drawing and sculpting in open studio sessions.
