As we move towards the future, the world of interior design is undergoing a remarkable transformation. In the quest for innovative and inspiring spaces, designers are embracing new concepts and ideas that go beyond mere aesthetics. In this article, we will explore five key trends that are set to revolutionize interiors in 2024. From sustainable and eco-friendly spaces to the integration of technology and the resurgence of nature-inspired designs, these trends will shape the way we live, work, and interact with our surroundings. Join us on this journey as we uncover the exciting possibilities that lie ahead and discover how these trends will redefine the concept of interior design in the near future.

The Importance of Keeping Up with Design Trends

Welcome to the future! Interior design is constantly evolving, and staying ahead of the trends is crucial for creating spaces that are not only visually appealing but also functional and future-proof. In this article, we’ll explore five key trends that are set to transform interiors in 2024. So buckle up and get ready to be inspired!

Trend 1: Sustainable and Eco-friendly Spaces

In an era where climate change is at the forefront of our concerns, sustainability is no longer a buzzword but a necessity. Designing eco-friendly spaces is not only better for the planet but also enhances the well-being of its occupants. Incorporating sustainable materials like reclaimed wood, recycled glass, and organic fabrics is a fantastic way to reduce our ecological footprint while adding a unique touch to our interiors. Pairing these materials with energy-efficient lighting and appliances ensures that style and sustainability go hand in hand. And let’s not forget about recycling and upcycling! Giving new life to old furniture and decor items not only saves money but also adds a delightful touch of creativity to your space.

Trend 2: Technology Integration and Smart Homes

Welcome to the age of smart homes! With technology becoming an integral part of our daily lives, it’s only natural that it finds its way into our interiors. From voice-activated assistants to automated lighting systems, the possibilities are endless. Embracing technology in interior design means finding ways to seamlessly integrate gadgets and devices into our spaces without sacrificing style. Imagine waking up to the perfect lighting and temperature, all controlled through your smartphone. Creating connected and automated living spaces not only adds convenience but also a touch of futuristic charm that is sure to impress your friends.

Trend 3: Biophilic Design and Nature-inspired Interiors

Who says you can’t have nature at your doorstep? Biophilic design, which emphasizes the connection between humans and nature, is set to take the interior design world by storm. Bringing the outdoors inside through the use of plants, natural light, and organic textures creates a calming and rejuvenating environment. Imagine a living room filled with lush greenery and a wall of windows that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Incorporating natural elements and materials such as wood, stone, and water features brings a sense of tranquility to your space. Not only does biophilic design look stunning, but it also has proven benefits on our well-being, reducing stress and increasing productivity.

So there you have it, a glimpse into the future of interior design! By embracing sustainable practices, integrating technology, and bringing nature indoors, you’ll be well on your way to creating spaces that are not only visually stunning but also environmentally conscious and future-proof. Get ready to design tomorrow today!

Trend 4: Flexibility and Multifunctionality in Furniture and Layouts

In the fast-paced world we live in, our needs and preferences can change in an instant. That’s why adaptable furniture is becoming a key trend in interior design. Whether it’s a sofa that can transform into a bed or a dining table that can extend to accommodate more guests, these pieces are designed to evolve with us. No more feeling stuck with furniture that no longer suits our lifestyle!

Space-saving Solutions for Small Living Areas

Living in compact spaces has become increasingly common, and interior design is adapting to these challenges. Space-saving solutions are now a top priority, with furniture designed to make the most of every inch. From folding tables and chairs to wall-mounted storage units, these clever designs help maximize living areas without sacrificing style or functionality.

Multi-purpose Rooms and Transformable Designs

Gone are the days of dedicating each room to a specific function. The trend of multi-purpose rooms and transformable designs is gaining momentum. Imagine a home office that can easily convert into a guest bedroom or a living room that can transform into a home theater. These versatile spaces allow us to make the most of our living areas, adapting to our changing needs and maximizing the functionality of each room.

Trend 5: Minimalism and Simplicity in Design

In a world that can often feel overwhelming, there is a growing desire for simplicity and clarity. Minimalism is making a comeback in interior design, with clean lines and clutter-free spaces taking center stage. By embracing simplicity, we create a calming and peaceful environment that allows us to focus on what truly matters.

Utilizing Neutral Color Palettes and Simple Patterns

When it comes to minimalist design, less is more. Neutral color palettes, such as whites, grays, and earth tones, create a serene and timeless atmosphere. Simple patterns, if used sparingly, can add depth and interest without overpowering the space. The key is to strike a balance between simplicity and visual appeal.

Maximizing Functionality with Minimalist Design Principles

Minimalist design is not just about aesthetics; it’s about functionality too. By focusing on essential elements and eliminating unnecessary clutter, we can maximize the functionality of our spaces. Every piece serves a purpose, and every corner is utilized efficiently. It’s a design philosophy that promotes both practicality and beauty.

Conclusion: Embracing the Future of Interior Design

As interior design continues to evolve, it’s important for us to embrace these trends and adapt to the changing landscape. Flexibility, multifunctionality, minimalism, and simplicity are all key factors in creating spaces that cater to our fast-paced lives. By designing with these principles in mind, we can create homes that are not only stylish and practical but also reflect our ever-changing needs and desires. So let’s get ready to welcome the future of interior design with open arms!

As we conclude our exploration of the key trends that will transform interiors in 2024, it is clear that the future of interior design is incredibly promising. With a focus on sustainability, technology integration, biophilic design, flexibility, and minimalism, we are poised to create spaces that are not only visually appealing but also functional, environmentally conscious, and conducive to our well-being. By embracing these trends, we have the opportunity to shape a future where our living spaces are truly reflective of our values, needs, and aspirations. So let us embark on this design journey, embracing the exciting possibilities that await us in the realm of interior design.

When you think of Chicago’s vast music history …jazz, blues, rock, pop …let’s not forget that the Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue, and 909 W. Armitage, has been serving world-class folk music for more than 60 years. 

The Beginning…a beat to remember 

The name ‘Old Town’ may refer to its founding rather than its current address, but the Old Town School of Folk Music was founded by folk musicians Frank Hamilton, Win Stracke, and Dawn Greening at 333 West North Avenue, offering guitar and banjo lessons in a communal teaching style and hosting performances by well-known folk musicians. 

Though she doesn’t have her own Wikipedia page, Greening was the one who planted the seedling that would grow into the Old Town School in her own living room, according to the Old Town website. Her son discussed his mother’s role on their website:

“Mother made people feel good—they called her the Mother of Old Town School, the Heart of Old Town School. She was a big woman with a big heart,” her son Lance remembered, in a blog on their website. “She said that the solution to the world’s problems is completely in love. If we can only get people to love each other, we’ll have no problems.” Although Dawn was not generally known as a musician herself, “she had a great appreciation for music,” Frank said. “She loved it….she had this ability to just draw in people.

Hamilton, who will turn 90 this year, taught guitar and banjo and served as unofficial dean. Several hundred prospective students, performers, and educators attended the first session, and famous singers and folklorists – without compensation – began performing during the Second Half. Among them were Pete Seeger, Odetta, Studs Terkel, Doc Watson, Mahalia Jackson, Bill Monroe, and The Weavers. Their website also mentions folk dancing and family sing-alongs. 

The formation and growth of the School, as Wikipedia tells it, coincided with the folk music boom of the 1960s and early 1970s. In Chicago, folk influence was scattered in Hyde Park (site of the Folk Festival), Oak Park (where Greening lived), and Old Town.

Boom Town, 1960’s and 70’s

The school  focused on offering instruction and performance, with many performing musicians acting as teachers and mentors. The School also proved a rich ground for collaboration. As Wikipedia sources tell it, the late 1960s were a peak of success as several musicians associated with the School rose to national prominence, including Roger McGuinn of The Byrds, Fred Holstein, John Prine, Steve Goodman, Bonnie Koloc, and Bob Gibson.

The late ’70s marked a decline in enrollment, concert attendance, and the beginning of a severe financial crisis that left the School on the brink of bankruptcy, according to their website. In 1982, the School’s staff and Board began a broad series of institutional changes that increased management effectiveness, placed a higher emphasis on fundraising, and expanded the scope of programming to include ethnic and traditional music from around the world.

Rebound 1990’s

With funds raised from a $10 million capital campaign, the School expanded its programs to the much larger Lincoln Avenue facility, and maintained its music education programs at the 909 W. Armitage building in Lincoln Park. The new Old Town School building was dedicated on September 18, 1998, with a concert byJoni Mitchell and Peter Yarrow.The new facility, according to their website, is “the finest in North America for the study and presentation of folk and traditional music forms, dramatically raised the School’s profile and garnered national praise and recognition.”

Today…Wiggleworms and more!

There’s a class for everyone at Old Town School, including banjo, dance, ukulele, voice, piano, and  ensembles.

Enrollment in Old Town School tuition programs averages close to 6,600 students per week, 2,700 of them children. The Lincoln Square and Lincoln Park facilities hold hundreds of classes and workshops in music, dance, and visual art for adults, children, and teens seven days per week, 48 weeks per year. Early childhood and middle school music programs thrive in suburban branches as well as in several community outreach programs throughout the city. The School presents performances by internationally known touring artists, the best of Chicago’s local artists, and its staff and students weekly. Most Wednesday nights feature free concerts through their popular World Music Wednesdays program

For babies and young children Wiggleworms classes are for kids, 12 months to 4 years, and caregivers together, setting the foundation for a lifelong love of music.

In-person classes are available in Lincoln Square, Lincoln Park, Pilsen, Evanston, Western Springs, and Glen Ellyn.

Event Saturday night 

On Saturday, February , folk legend Bonnie Koloc headlines a sold-out evening of legendary folk music with Rose Snyder, Steve Eisen, Andy May and Al Ehrich, along with special guest Mark Dvorak. Tickets do sometimes become available in the days before the show. Add yourself to their email notification list by clicking here.

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

It’s a short two weeks before Valentine’s Day. Your partner is the best thing you’ve got in your world. You want to wine them, dine them…maybe even propose!

With near-perfect, 4.8/5 ratings on several review sites, consider Logan Square’s Penumbra Restaurant & Wine Bar, recently voted the #1 Most Romantic Restaurant in the nation by Yelp (via Business Insider.) 

What makes this Latin-inspired steakhouse and wine bar so special? It starts with the name. Penumbra, according to its website, is inspired by owner Rita Vargas’ experience living the first  part of her life in Ecuador. Having no electricity while very young, she used candles for light, thus creating a space of partial illumination =  PENUMBRA. The restaurant honors that heritage and provides an intimate experience for guests.

For starters, begin with their Charcuterie Board, filled with shareable local and imported cured meats and cheeses, Kalamata and green olives, and served with artisan bread. Scallops are seared in butter and served over roasted serrano avocado sauce, and  ‘dolloped’ with their house remoulade. Bocaditos is a quesadilla-style tomato basil tortilla, stuffed with cheese, scallions, parsley, coriander and hot pepper, with a ‘dollop’  of  homemade avocado crema.

Move forward to steakhouse royalty with their Ribeye, a 10-ounce Ribeye steak rubbed in cracked black pepper. Pork serves up two boneless pork tenderloins, seasoned with a hickory molasses dry rub, and topped with roasted garlic cream and cranberry chipotle sauces, served with roasted potatoes and grilled vegetables. Chicken is a succulent chicken breast topped, with their special herbed goat cheese cream, and sever with house salad and roasted potatoes. A Valentine/Special Occasion Surf & Turf pairs your choice of steak, combined with Lobster Tail or Shadow/Creole Jalapeno Shrimp, served with roasted potatoes and house salad. Salmon is pan-seared and smothered in the Chef’s special caper butter reduction, accompanied by roasted poblano potato puree and grilled asparagus.

As we have often said…save room for dessert. Especially if it’s their Penumbra Ice Cream, a homemade rum raisin ice cream topped with light caramel and chocolate drizzle. (I rarely see rum raisin anywhere anymore, so this is a special treat!) Or, opt for their Molten Brandy Truffle, a gooey flourless lava cake with infused chocolate Brandy truffle inside, and topped with a raspberry Grand Marnier sauce. This dish served 2-3 people, easily. 

But don’t just take my word for it! One Google reviewer wrote,

“The perfect place for a romantic date. We asked to sit at a booth table and it was the most perfect and intimate setting you could find. Everything we ordered was amazing. We ordered cold cuts and this paired with drinks was perfect. Highly recommended.”

Another wrote:  

“The best restaurant in Chicago!! Everything taste amazing!! Had the creole jalapeño shrimp beyond flavorful!! The steak and lobster are amazing! The lobster is the best I’ve ever had! Must try it’s a hidden gem & the service is phenomenal! Very romantic vibes! Will be returning again next time we are in Chicago!”

Penumbra Restaurant & Wine Bar is located at 3309 W. Fullerton. Their hours are Wednesday & Thursday, 5pm–10pm, Friday & Saturday, 5pm–11pm, and Sunday, 5pm–9pm. They are closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Although walk-ins are welcome, reservations are highly recommended for Friday and Saturday evenings. For parties of 5 or more, please contact the restaurant for availability. For reservations, click here. 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Introduction to Lucrative Investment Properties

Investing in real estate can be a rewarding endeavor, offering the potential for long-term financial growth and stability. However, not all investment properties are created equal, and distinguishing the truly lucrative opportunities from the rest requires careful analysis and understanding of key factors. In this article, we will delve into the secrets of spotting a lucrative investment property. We will explore the importance of conducting thorough market research, analyzing property location and potential, evaluating financial viability and return on investment, assessing property condition and potential repairs, understanding rental demand and income potential, negotiating the best purchase price, and ultimately, maximizing investment returns. By following these guidelines, you will equip yourself with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed investment decisions and unlock the secrets to success in the world of real estate investment.

1. Introduction to Lucrative Investment Properties

Investing in real estate can be a smart financial move, but not all properties are created equal. If you’re looking to make a lucrative investment, it’s important to know how to spot the right property. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of unlocking the secrets to finding a lucrative investment property.

Understanding the Basics of Investment Properties

Before we dive into the details, let’s start with the basics. An investment property is a real estate property that is purchased with the intention of generating income or appreciating in value over time. This could be a residential property that you rent out to tenants or a commercial property that you lease to businesses.

Why Investing in Real Estate Can Be Lucrative

So, why should you consider investing in real estate? Well, there are several reasons. First, real estate has historically been a stable and reliable investment, with property values generally increasing over time. Second, rental properties can provide a steady stream of passive income, allowing you to earn money while you sleep. Finally, real estate investments offer tax advantages and the potential for long-term appreciation, making them a popular choice among savvy investors.

2. Conducting Thorough Market Research

Now that you understand the basics, let’s delve into the first step in finding a lucrative investment property: conducting thorough market research.

Identifying Promising Real Estate Markets

The first thing you need to do is identify promising real estate markets. Look for areas with strong economic growth, job opportunities, and a growing population. These factors contribute to increased demand for housing, which can drive up property values and rental prices.

Analyzing Market Trends and Growth Potential

Next, analyze market trends and growth potential. Look at historical data to determine if property values in the area have been steadily increasing. Additionally, consider any future developments or infrastructure projects that may impact property values positively.

Examining Supply and Demand Factors

Lastly, examine supply and demand factors. Are there more properties available for sale or rent than there are buyers or tenants? If so, it could indicate a saturated market and lower rental yields. Conversely, a market with high demand and limited supply may present better investment opportunities.

3. Analyzing Property Location and Potential

Once you’ve identified a promising market, it’s time to analyze the location and potential of specific properties.

Evaluating Neighborhood Characteristics

Consider the characteristics of the neighborhood where the property is located. Is it a safe and desirable area? Are there good schools, parks, and amenities nearby? Properties in desirable neighborhoods tend to attract better tenants and have higher resale values.

Proximity to Key Amenities and Infrastructure

Evaluate the property’s proximity to key amenities and infrastructure. Is it close to public transportation, shopping centers, and employment hubs? Properties in convenient locations are more likely to attract tenants and have higher rental demand.

Assessing Future Development Plans

Lastly, assess any future development plans in the area. Are there upcoming projects that may enhance property values or improve the neighborhood? Keep an eye out for new infrastructure, commercial or residential developments, or revitalization projects that could positively impact your investment.

4. Evaluating Financial Viability and Return on Investment

Finally, it’s time to evaluate the financial viability and potential return on investment of the property.

Calculating Potential Return on Investment (ROI)

Calculate the potential return on investment (ROI) by considering factors like rental income, expenses, and potential appreciation. Look for properties with a high ROI, as this indicates a more lucrative investment.

Assessing Cash Flow and Rental Income Potential

Evaluate the property’s cash flow potential by analyzing rental income and expenses. Consider factors like vacancy rates, maintenance costs, property management fees, and taxes. Positive cash flow is essential for a successful investment.

Considering Appreciation and Tax Benefits

Lastly, consider the potential for property appreciation and tax benefits. Research historical property value trends in the area and consult with a tax professional to understand any tax incentives or deductions associated with the investment.

By following these steps and conducting thorough research, you can unlock the secrets to spotting a lucrative investment property. Remember, investing in real estate is a long-term game, so take your time, crunch the numbers, and choose wisely. Happy investing!

5. Assessing Property Condition and Potential Repairs

Conducting a Thorough Property Inspection

Before diving headfirst into purchasing an investment property, it’s crucial to conduct a thorough property inspection. This process involves scrutinizing every nook and cranny of the property to identify any existing issues or potential problems. Keep an eye out for things like structural damage, plumbing or electrical problems, or signs of water damage. By conducting a thorough inspection, you can avoid any unpleasant surprises down the line.

Identifying Potential Repair and Renovation Costs

Once you’ve completed the property inspection, it’s time to assess the potential repair and renovation costs. This means estimating the expenses associated with fixing any existing issues and making necessary improvements. Keep in mind that repairs and renovations can add up quickly, so it’s essential to budget wisely.

Weighing the Cost-Benefit of Repairs

After identifying potential repair and renovation costs, it’s important to weigh the cost-benefit of each investment. Consider the potential return on investment (ROI) for each repair or renovation you plan to undertake. Some repairs may significantly increase the property’s value and rental income, while others may not be worth the expense. Make informed decisions by carefully considering the cost-benefit ratio of each repair.

6. Understanding Rental Demand and Income Potential

Analyzing Local Rental Market Trends

To make an informed decision about an investment property, it’s vital to analyze the local rental market trends. Look into factors such as rental vacancy rates, rental prices, and rental demand in the area. Understanding these trends will provide you with insights on the potential income potential of the property.

Determining Optimal Rental Rates

Setting the optimal rental rate for your investment property is crucial for attracting tenants and maximizing your income potential. Research the current rental rates in the area and compare them to similar properties. Consider factors like location, amenities, and property condition when determining the rental rate. Finding the sweet spot will help you strike the balance between attracting tenants and generating a profitable rental income.

Assessing Tenant Demand and Vacancy Rates

Assessing tenant demand and vacancy rates is key to ensuring a steady stream of rental income. Look into the local area’s demographics, job market, and economic indicators to gauge the demand for rental properties. Additionally, research the vacancy rates in the area to get a sense of how quickly you can expect to find tenants and avoid long periods of property vacancy.

7. Negotiating the Best Purchase Price

Conducting Comparable Sales Analysis

To negotiate the best purchase price for your investment property, start by conducting a comparable sales analysis. Look at recent sales of similar properties in the area to determine their market value. Armed with this information, you can make an informed and competitive offer, ensuring you don’t overpay for the property.

Preparing a Strong Offer Strategy

Crafting a strong offer strategy is crucial when negotiating the purchase price. Consider factors such as the property’s condition, market value, and any potential repairs or renovations needed. Tailor your offer to the seller’s circumstances and motivations, and be prepared to negotiate and compromise when necessary.

Negotiating with Sellers to Achieve a Favorable Price

Negotiating with sellers can be a delicate dance, but don’t be afraid to assert yourself to achieve a favorable price. Be respectful, yet firm, and use your research and analysis to support your negotiating position. Remember, the goal is to find a win-win situation where both parties feel satisfied with the final price.

8. Conclusion: Taking Action and Maximizing Investment Returns

Developing a Solid Investment Plan

Now that you have unlocked the secrets to spotting a lucrative investment property, it’s time to develop a solid investment plan. Define your goals, timeline, and budget, and determine the strategies you will employ to maximize your returns. Having a clear plan in place will keep you focused and on track throughout the investment process.

Implementing Effective Property Management Strategies

Once you’ve acquired an investment property, implementing effective property management strategies is crucial for success. From tenant screening and lease management to property maintenance and rent collection, ensure you have robust systems in place to streamline operations and protect your investment.

Continuously Monitoring and Evaluating Investment Performance

Lastly, continuously monitor and evaluate the performance of your investment. Regularly review your financials, rental income, expenses, and any market changes to identify areas of improvement or potential risks. By staying proactive and adaptable, you can maximize your investment returns and make any necessary adjustments along the way. Remember, the investment journey is a marathon, not a sprint!

Conclusion: Taking Action and Maximizing Investment Returns

Investing in lucrative properties requires careful consideration and analysis, but the potential rewards are well worth the effort. By conducting thorough market research, evaluating property location and condition, assessing financial viability, understanding rental demand, and negotiating smartly, you can position yourself for success in the real estate market. Remember to continuously monitor and evaluate your investment performance and implement effective property management strategies. With a solid investment plan and a commitment to maximizing returns, you can unlock the secrets to spotting and profiting from lucrative investment properties. Start your journey today and watch your real estate portfolio flourish.

“Pilsen might be the only place in the country where decades-old taquerias—Mexican restaurants specializing in tacos—line streets with Czech names, and vibrant public murals turn alleyways into exhibitions. South and west of Chicago proper, the neighborhood of Pilsen is geographically small but densely packed with vintage stores, Mexican restaurants, art galleries, record stores, young visitors, and families who have been in the area for generations.”

The Atlantic: Pilsen-An Explosion of Color in a Gray City

Today, the neighborhood Is bound, roughly, by South Damen Avenue and South Halsted Avenue to the west and east, and by 16^th Street and West Cermak Road to the north and south. 

In the beginning…

With buildings that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, the Lower West Side’s Pilsen neighborhood was founded in 1878 by Czech immigrants, who named the district after Pilsen, the fourth largest city in Czechia. 

The population also included other ethnic groups from the Austro-Hungarian Empire including Slovaks, Slovenes, Croats and Austrians, as well as immigrants of Polish and Lithuanian heritage. Most were refugees from the toppled Austrian-Hungarian Empire. As a WTTW history said, many immigrants were Bohemian Freethinkers who created an extensive network of schools, athletic clubs (or sokols), benevolent societies, organized discussion groups, and forums for political debate. Freethinkers formed their own credit unions and savings and loan associations, providing the means for much of Pilsen’s earliest and grandest development projects. To this day, neo-Bohemian baroque architecture, marked by heavily-corniced, mixed-use structures, defines the neighborhood’s unique aesthetic.

There had been previous Bohemian settlements in Chicago, according to a study by the Czech & Slovak Genealogy Society of Illinois, but none had been able to reach the levels of self-sufficiency and cultural autonomy that Pilsen had. Pilsen would become the major Bohemian settlement, not only in Chicago, but in the entire United States, a position it maintained until the  granting of Czech independence after World War I. After that, immigration rapidly declined and second generation Bohemians moved to the suburbs.

 By 1960, according to WTTW, approximately 14 percent of Pilsen’s population was Mexican or of Mexican descent. Within a decade, they comprised the majority of Pilsen residents. 

Today: Vibrancy on every corner

As one TripAdvisor notes, Pilsen  emerged as a largely Latino community in the 1960s and 1970s. 

The first thing you’ll notice is the colorful street art, according to Choose Chicago. The buildings are covered in massive paintings and mosaics that pay homage to the neighborhood’s Hispanic roots. “Take a stroll around the neighborhood to soak it all in, particularly the 16^th Street Murals,” they urge. 

As our TripAdvisor notes, Mario Castillo painted Peace or Metafisico in 1968, the first Mexican and anti-Vietnam War mural in Pilsen. Benito Juarez Community Academy, which opened in 1977, has a 94 percent Latino student body and once was the largest high school in Illinois with more than 5,000 students.

“Walk through the Pilsen neighborhood, see the street carts doling out tamales and paletas,” they said. “Marvel at the 16^th Street murals, visit the National Museum of Mexican Art, Thalia Halland St. Procopius Church, take a break at Dusek’s Board & Beer or Simone’s or Kristoffer’s Café & Bakery or Panaderia Nuevo Leon or Punch House or La Vaca Margarita Bar or Pollo Express.

The neighborhood’s thriving arts scene has become known as the Chicago Arts District. This seven-block stretch is filled with artists lofts, studios, retail spaces, galleries, and more. Another must for art lovers is Pilsen Arts and Community House, a local gallery focused on community and accessibility.

Forbes’ Coolest Neighborhood, 2018

Forbes magazine named Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood one of the world’s 12 hippest destinations. Six years later, Pilsen is still cool.

According to a report by CBS News at the time, Forbes magazine said Pilsen earned this honor by  becoming “a nest of cutting-edge culture and art with its mix of restaurants, Mexican street scenes, and galleries.”

Event: Forget Valentine’s Day. Come to Yollo’s Anti-Vday hangout!

On Saturday, February 9, The National Museum of Mexican Art’s youth initiative, Yollocalli Arts Reach, presents the Anti-Valentine’s Day Party. Join the Museum for an evening of music, food, dancing, art and sexual health info and freebies. You can snap a pic with your bestie in the Polaroid photo booth, make yourself a bouquet or a bracelet, or get in the spirit and create your own valentine cards. The galleries will be open late for exploring. This event is free and for young people ages 25 and under. For more information and registration, click here.

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago