Latinos Progresando Community Center

Canopy worked in close partnership with Latinos Progresando to restore and transform the long-vacant Marshall Square public library into a community destination. Multi-cultural and multi-generational expression emerged as key architectural themes for the new facility during charettes and activations. Canopy’s design preserved as many of the existing architectural artifacts as possible while still modernizing building systems. For example, the existing reinforced concrete frame and internal structure were maintained and exposed to celebrate the building’s history. This fully renovated building now houses Latinos Progresando’s new offices, mental and behavioral health services, and nature-based programming by the Lincoln Park Zoo. While still emulating the ethos of a public library, the building is a renewed neighborhood landmark, maintaining the sense of place as a community anchor.