By expanding the opening between the courts and bridging the rising walls formed by the geometry of the game’s boundaries, an inviting space is formed that serves as a forecourt to the spectators’ area. This is a place for art, interaction, performan
The association of squash being played in a white box is suspended, now open to the sky. Those who have never seen the game will have a chance to watch or play. Views toward the lake are framed in the opening between the courts, with the Planetarium
At night the squash pavilion can be lit and seen from the water and Lake Shore Drive, a beacon that will offer a sense of delight, celebrate the sport of squash, and serve as a space where all people are welcome to gather.

Chicago - The Beacon Project (2021)

Backstory

The idea of an outdoor steel squash court was the brainchild of 2 passionate players who met at the University Club in New York City. Jeff Anschlowar runs a steel fabrication facility in Maspeth Queens where he decided to carve out space on the industrial property for an outdoor court using the material of the trade. Robert Gibralter brings ideas related to fusing squash with art + education + community. Jacobschang Architecture harnesses these ideas by bringing creative and strategic skills to the team.

The combination of the pandemic shutting down access to indoor facilities as well as the power of social media through Robert’s posts, gave the newly constructed court a groundswell of interest from the squash community from near and far. The promise of playing squash outdoors in four seasons has been proven by Maspeth Squash.

Eventually Arnie Dratt got word of this remarkable squash structure. The seed of Project Beacon is planted. His objective: That Chicago have the first public outdoor steel squash courts that are accessible to all, built through a public/private partnership. While this is a conceptual proposal, the viability of the project is contingent on getting approval from the city or finding alternative spaces in the Chicago area.

Why steel?

A steel squash court is a robust, maintenance friendly material. It is like an instrument when in play and its performance has proven to be a superior surface with fewer seams, truer ball rebounds, and straighter lines. Additionally, steel is a recyclable, sustainable material.

Strategic Siting

Project Beacon is intentionally sited in a public park where access to multiple recreation facilities is offered to people who come from all over the city of Chicago. The squash courts are close to parking and the field-house is within a 5 minute walk. Monumental sculptures and art by renowned artists are situated throughout the park. The squash + art pavilion will be another amenity for all to enjoy along with rock climbing, skating, mini-golf, and gardens. Nearby supporting institutions including School of the Arts Institute of Chicago, After School Matters, The University Club, and Lakeshore Sports and Fitness, will provide volunteers and programming. Other supporters include MetroSquash, the PSA Foundation, and various arts organizations.

Peanut Park was chosen as the site for the outdoor squash courts for its proximity to other racquet sports like tennis and pickleball. The existing pathway runs closely parallel to Lake Shore Drive and links one end of the Cancer Survivor’s Garden to the tennis courts.

While sunbathers sometimes occupy the upper rise of Peanut Park, the lower lawn, perhaps because of its proximity to the Drive, is underutilized.

The squash + art pavilion would activate the space that is along the existing pathway, enlivening the area with activity that mediates between the roadway and the more peaceful upper slopes. An accessible pathway provides an alternative point of entry. The courts are sited in a north/south orientation.

Repurpose and Reinvention

Traditional interior squash courts are lined up in a close cellular structure, with spectators watching from one point of view. Two squash courts in a park setting offer an opportunity to create an additional public space. One is more civic facing, fronting the Lake, the Drive, and the path. The other, a collective spectator area enhanced by the rise of land creating a natural amphitheater where both games can be watched at once. An open roof pavilion unifies the two court structures, providing shade and intensifying the spatial experience.