Venue Spotlight: Morgan MFG ~ 401 N. Morgan St, Chicago
If our events can be seen as fleeting, decorative murals–painted and washed away in the course of a day–the spaces we so transiently inhabit make for truly wonderful canvases, although surely not blank ones. Chicago, rich with eclecticity and authenticity, is home to such an array of tremendous spaces that designing events here is always an inspiring undertaking.
Join us in Taking Up Spaces, a series of posts where we venture inside these canvases to see some of the attributes that make each of these places unique and enticing. We’re kicking off the series with Morgan MFG in Fulton Market.
Several members of the Morgan team gave us a glimpse into the 32,000 square foot space–originally created as a safe working environment for electrical linemen, and dating back to pre-Chicago Fire 1855.
Above: a sampling of the many surfaces of Morgan MFG
Oftentimes, when describing styles, seemingly incompatible words are used in conjunction–ambiguous combinations such as “modern vintage,” for example, that can be difficult to visualize. This is where Morgan MFG differs: the space provides a perfect visual of the definition it boasts: Industrial Elegance.
Above: From the top. Photo courtesy of 401morganmfg.com
Going into Detail(s)
From the natural sunlight spilling in through an array of factory windows and skylights, to the truly noteworthy restrooms–an aggregation of striking details, rich textures and lustrous surfaces–Morgan offers unexpected elements at every turn.
Above: Morgan MFG, bathed in natural light making its way through expansive factory windows. Photos courtesy of Fandl PhotographyThe women’s (above) and men’s (below) restrooms are such a favorite that guests regularly post photos and blog about their elegant details. Photo courtesy of 401morganmfg.com
Chandeliers made of recycled bicycle chains, an intricate backlit metal staircase, and an old water tower, serving as sentry and visible through the angled ceiling glass, each add to the overall aesthetic.
Chain reaction: Recycled bicycle chains have never looked better than they do as Morgan MFG’s striking chandeliers. Photos courtesy of 401morganmfg.com
A step above: intricate metal stairs can be backlit to guests’ wishes. Photo courtesy of 401morganmfg.comAbove: In the limelight. A gorgeously unique wedding reception shows the versatility of the space. Photos courtesy of Kent Drake Photography
Open to Interpretation
According to the Morgan MFG team, what is perhaps most distinct about the space is its transformative nature. Indeed, the open, flowing layout allows for the creation of an infinite number of design spaces.
The many faces of Morgan MFG. Above: a breezy, sunlit and circular ceremony, photos courtesy of Kent Drake Phtoography. Below: Love is in the air for a wonderfully fresh Mitzvah celebration, photos courtesy of Fandl Photography / Coordination by Amanda Weil
Above: refined rusticity. Photos courtesy of David Wittig Photography / Coordination by Bliss Weddings and Events
While this quality allows each event its own singular feel, the raw elegance remains as an integral, accommodating characteristic. From the plant floor to the mezzanine to the production space, there is room for any number of visions.
Above: guests enjoy cocktail hour at in a wonderfully illuminated Morgan MFG celebration. Photos courtesy of Kent Drake PhotographyAbove: Dusk falls on a romantic, candlelit affair. Photos courtesy of David Wittig Photography / Coordination by Bliss Weddings and Events
Choosing a venue–one of the earliest decisions made in event design, production and planning–is not one to be taken lightly. Luckily, Chicago is brimming with beautiful locales like Morgan MFG that are so much more than just a backdrop.
Many thanks to Sara Barg, Hilary Hadley and Shreyas Shah from Morgan MFG for their contributions to this post. Join us again soon as we venture into another inviting Chicago venue.
For more information, and a full tour of the space, visit Morgan MFG on their website.
