October 31, 2022 - Construction is commencing on the historic Graceland Cemetery's main entry on Chicago's north side. Following the master plan to expand and improve sustainability efforts, horticultural offerings, and visitor amenities across the 160+-year-old cemetery, the main entrance at the corner of Irving Park Road and Clark Street was identified as a primary opportunity to revitalize the visitor experience.

03 Entry view 7

The improvements will situate the entry area as a forecourt to welcome visitors, with a brand-new ironwork archway crafted to mark the cemetery's threshold, referencing the original gatehouse from the 1860s. A new open pedestrian plaza will improve access to the visitor center and provide a flexible space that acts as a gathering point. The renovation strives to maintain the sense of permanence of the cemetery by respecting its historic materials and creating a new gateway to welcome the next 100 years of Graceland.

02 Entry view 2 revised

Project Team

Bromsgrove Garden Ornaments – custom planters
Church Street Construction – demolition and foundations
David Douglas – masonry flatwork
Greengard – civil engineer
Douglas & Company – masonry flatwork
Mariani Landscape – landscape contractor
Marion Restoration – vertical masonry
Moshe Calamaro & Associates – structural engineer
North Shore Aggregate – flatwork
Quarra Stone Company – vertical masonry
VA Robinson – ironwork archway

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