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ICAA Chicago-Midwest Hosts Panel on Classicism & Federal Architecture Oct. 21
View of the Arlington Memorial Bridge and the Lincoln Memorial illuminated at night
Credit: Amy Sparwasser/iStockOn Wednesday, October 21, 2026, the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art (ICAA) Chicago-Midwest chapter holds a panel titled, "Built to Last: Classicism, Modernism, and the Beauty of Federal Architecture." The conversation focuses on style, permanence, and the buildings that represent Americans.
What makes a public building beautiful — and what makes that beauty endure? As a national debate unfolds over the design of America's federal buildings, the ICAA Chicago-Midwest Chapter's Minnesota Subcommittee convenes a distinguished panel to consider the enduring appeal of classicism, the case for modernism, and the question at the heart of civic architecture: how do we build for the ages?
Hosted by the Minnesota Subcommittee of the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art's Chicago-Midwest Chapter, this evening brings together national and local voices in architecture, design, and preservation for a spirited, good-faith exchange on the buildings that represent us — and the ideals they embody.
The Panel:
- Justin Shubow — President, National Civic Art Society
- Thomas Luebke, FAIA — Secretary, U.S. Commission of Fine Arts
- Michael Roehr, AIA — Principal, RoehrSchmitt Architecture
- Michael Bjornberg, FAIA — Historic Building Specialist and Senior Project Manager, Leo A Daly
Moderated by:
- Peter H. Miller, Hon AIA — Publisher, Traditional Building
The evening will include the panel discussion and audience Q&A, with a cocktail reception beforehand and an opportunity afterwards for guests to engage in continued conversation.
Date: October 21, 2026
Time: 5:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Avalon, 80 W 4th St, St Paul, MN 55102, USA
Register here: givebutter.com/built-to-last-classicism
Learn more here: classicistchicago.org/icaa-chicago-midwest-events/built-to-last-classicism-modernism-and-the-beauty-of-federal-architecture
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