How to Rent a Mid-Century Modern Location for Your Event in Chicago
Chicago, IL, is known for its jaw-dropping architecture, with towering buildings like Willis Tower, the Aon Center, and Trump International Hotel and Tower. But tucked within Chicago's suburbs and vibrant neighborhoods is a treasure trove of mid-century modern homes and structures, filled with iconic pieces like antiques, abstract artwork, and natural materials.
If you're looking for an incredibly photogenic spot for your shoot or dream of hosting a party with a nostalgic, retro feel, Giggster offers numerous mid-century modern locations in the Chicago area and beyond. From cozy studios with vintage furniture and stylish lofts with large windows to bright, open-plan homes with plenty of natural light, our selection of accessible and budget-friendly MCM venues has you covered.
Start your search now and get ready to create something extraordinary. Get the Giggster app and book your dream location in Chicago.
Incredible Mid-Century Modern Locations Curated by Giggster
Say goodbye to cookie-cutter spaces with Giggster's fantastic collection of mid-century modern spaces in Chicago. Take a look through our handpicked favorites and the city's hidden gems like Cozy & Eclectic Home --Northwest side of Chicago to find the ideal spot for your next project or gathering.
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You and your guests will feel like VIPs in a picturesque apartment with unique, mid-century modern furniture, rare vintage German rugs, and custom Finnish curtains. There's also a bathroom and a kitchen with a fridge and microwave you can use.
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Experience a relaxing escape in a single-floor condo with comfy beds. It's a contemporary masterpiece in the West Loop with floor-to-ceiling windows and glass wall features that make the place feel warm, bright, and cozy.
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Art exhibitions, pop-ups, networking mixers, and even birthday bashes and engagement parties are all welcome in an art gallery in downtown Chicago, just off Michigan Avenue. It's easy to access and has a lot of character that adds to its charm.
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If you want to host a fitness event, yoga session, photo shoot, or film production, you can't miss our dark room studio. There's Wi-Fi so you can stay connected, a sound system, smart-activated lights, and more.
Premier Mid-Century Modern Spaces Starting at Just $19/hour
Exceptional Variety & Quality: Whether you need an urban artistic loft for your intimate party, a bright, mid-century modern home with an open floor plan in the vibrant North Center neighborhood, or an industrial timber event space with mid-century modern design elements, Giggster has it all. Browse our 266 impressive locations in the Windy City and you're sure to find what you need and within your budget.
Hassle-Free Booking: Gone are the days when you have to make endless phone calls and send tons of emails just to get a price quote. On Giggster, you can do everything—see venue availability, check features and hourly rates upfront, and chat directly with the host—in just a few taps on your mobile device. Spend for as little as $19/hour, and you can be on your way to an epic celebration.
24-Hour Free Cancellation Policy: If you have a sudden change of heart or need to postpone the shoot or gathering, Giggster lets you cancel your booking for free within 24 hours of confirmation, as long as you made the booking at least 48 hours before the event.
Platform Protections: Giggster offers optional protection packages that cover last-minute disruptions, damages, and liability. Add this to your booking and have peace of mind as you plan your production or gathering.
Amazing Events for Mid-Century Modern Locations in Chicago
Mid-century modern venues look great and are practical, timeless, and appealing. That's why it's no surprise that many individuals, event planners, filmmakers, photographers, and other artists choose them for their creative endeavors.
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Film and Photo Shoots – Open Spaces. Do those scenes shot in houses with open floor plans and glass doors or buildings with simple, rectangular forms with flat or low-sloped roofs seem familiar to you? Chicago has no shortage of period homes and private residences that can be used as a set for your film production or photo shoot.
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Retro Parties – Timeless Flair. If the place already looks the part for your retro-themed reception, cocktail party, gala, or birthday celebration, you don't have to spend too much time decorating the space. Vintage furniture often sold in thrift stores and antique shops, pops of color, and warm wood tones can do the trick.
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Dinner – Sophisticated Dining. The elegant simplicity of a mid-century modern venue in Chicago is perfect for those who prefer a clean, understated design. Guests can easily move around, and there are no unnecessary elements that could distract them.
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Corporate Retreats – Inspiring Surroundings. The flexible layouts for activities, a stimulating environment that helps spark creativity and fresh ideas, and a professional and classic look—what else could you ask for? These retro spaces offer a delightful break from your usual conference room.
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Art Exhibitions – Less is More. The minimalist interiors with clean walls and simple furnishings create a neutral and unobtrusive backdrop. This allows the art to be the star of the show without any visual competition.
Top Features to Look for in a Chicago Mid-Century Modern Venue
Thanks to Chicago's rich architectural history, you can expect to discover incredible hotspots and hidden gems out there. If you don't know where to start your search, here are a few ideas to narrow your options.
Does it have lots of natural light? The 1950s and 1960s style spaces use glass walls and big windows, so look for those venues that let the sun pour in. Not only does it make the place look more open and cheerful, but it's also a dream for filmmakers and photographers.
Is it connected to the outdoors? Easy access to both indoor and outdoor spaces is a common feature in a mid-century modern venue. It doesn't have to be massive—a small garden, backyard, lawn, or patio can give your guests or crew a chance to step outside for some fresh air.
The right mix of old and new. Even though it's the style of the mid-20th century and was built around that era, it's important that it has modern amenities while keeping its historic character. See if it has a good sound system, reliable Wi-Fi, catering facilities, or modern bathrooms.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Renting a Mid-Century Modern Location in the Chicago Area
Not sure if a venue of the mid-century modern era or a space with a retro-futuristic feel is the right setting for your creative endeavor or Chicago event? It's important to know its pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Advantages
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The clean lines, authentic retro vibe, and natural elements—there's no denying that mid-century modern style is incredibly stylish and beautiful. You can have a picturesque backdrop for your production shoot or an awe-inspiring setting for your gathering.
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Mid-century modern locations focus on lots of natural light and open floor plans. Not only does it give the space a bigger and brighter feel, but it also gives your guests or film crew ample space to use and move equipment around.
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When you rent a mid-century modern space in Chicago, you get to enjoy the location and style without any long-term commitment, which gives you a lot of flexibility.
Disadvantages
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Chicago's mid-century modern spaces are so popular because of their unique look and cozy feel. This high demand means you must book well in advance, or you might have to pay a premium to secure a venue that aligns with your brand and meets your needs.
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If the building is not updated with modern amenities, you might have to deal with older plumbing and electrical systems or other maintenance issues because of its age.
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Some original mid-century homes were designed with smaller kitchens than what we're used to today, which might be an issue for certain types of events.
Hidden Costs of Events at a Mid-Century Modern Venue in Chicago
A Chicago mid-century modern location may be a dream come true for you, and it's easy to get caught up in its fantastic aesthetic that you forget about some nitty-gritty details. Keep your eyes open and watch out for those sneaky costs that can add up.
It's more than just the venue.
When you scout for a location, try to approach it as if you were home buying, which means you must look beyond the staging. Aside from its overall look and vibe, ask about the extra fees for the mandatory in-house catering, AV equipment, or cleaning and security?
Do you need to shop for furniture and supplies?
Not all venues are well-equipped or fully furnished, so you might have to go to places like Modern Hill Furniture Warehouse to buy what you need for the event. You can often find great deals during a sale at a local market or specialized vintage shops for tables, sofas, and other items that have been carefully restored.
Does your rental time include setup and teardown?
You want to pay for six hours for the shoot or full-out party, but does it include the time it takes to set up all your tables, decorations, and equipment, and then to clean everything up afterward? Many venues charge for setup and teardown time, and those hours can add up quickly.
Mid-Century Modern Style Venue Rentals with Giggster
You already know why mid-century modern is the perfect style for your next event or production, so don't settle for generic spaces. Lucky for you, it's so easy and quick to find and book Chicago mid-century modern locations on Giggster. Skip the hassle and get right to the creative part in just a few clicks on our handy app.
