About the Driehaus Museum

The Museum is located just steps from the Magnificent Mile. The exquisite building was saved twice, first by a collective of over 100 Chicago citizens in 1919, and then by philanthropist Richard H. Driehaus, who sponsored its restoration from 2003-2008.

Mission

The Driehaus Museum engages and inspires the global community through exploration and ongoing conversations in art, architecture, and design of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Its permanent collection and temporary exhibitions are presented in an immersive experience within the Driehaus Museum, encompassing two historic landmark buildings, the 1883 Nickerson Mansion and the 1926 Murphy Auditorium. The Museum’s collection reflects and is inspired by the collecting interests, vision, and focus of its founder, the late Richard H. Driehaus.

Strategic Vision

Guided by a commitment to making decorative and fine art more accessible, drawing connections between historic art and contemporary art to illuminate our cultural heritage, and preserving the legacy of Richard H. Driehaus, the Museum showcases art, architecture and design from the late 19th and early 20th century in a meticulously restored Gilded Age home, with a vision to become a self-sustaining organization with a distinctive reputation for artistic excellence in Chicago and around the world.

Values

• We act with Integrity to build loyalty and trust. We value and respect empathy, kindness, collegiality, and diversity.
  
  
• We strive toward equitable Engagement to make the experience exceptional. We create a seamless flow of experience for all.
  
  
• We embrace an Enterprising spirit to establish a sustainable foundation. Collaboration, creativity, and resourcefulness drive our work.
  
  
• We are Experiential. Our vivid storytelling bridges the past and present.
  
  
• We honor our Legacy through stewardship of resources, scholarship, and collections. Our legacy becomes the catalyst to illuminate universal human experiences of beauty and design.

Video

How is the Driehaus Museum designing its future? With a promise of building community, creating access for all, and by championing the activation of one of Chicago’s most remarkable historic spaces.