A beautiful addition by Chicago-based New Office complements a beloved community garden in North Lawndale, where Chicagos Sukkah Design Festival takes place. The project was a collaboration between New Office and North Lawndale Historical and Cultural Society (NLHCS), a group committed to preserving the West Side neighborhoods rich cultural heritage, its people, and its architecture. Previously, New Office participated in Sukkah Design Festival. More recently, the office offered its design services pro bono to NLHCS, ultimately delivering a new garden patio at African Heritage Garden, a community staple sandwiched between prewar brick houses with a flourishing flower bed shaped like the African continent. The new patio and its accompanying pavilion by New Office overlook the garden.The goal of this project is to design and construct a space that serves as a symbol of African heritage for the local community, New Offices Annabell Ren said in a statement. The design is inspired by a traditional African hut, featuring a skylight to connect with nature and the sky, and a hearth to serve as a gathering place and resting area.The patio is nestled within a beloved community garden. (Jiachen Wang)The design by New Office is economical but powerful: The patio is made of wood, and the structure is supported by conventional framing methods. A skylight in its centers invites light in. A masonry pathway leads up to it, drawing in visitors from the sidewalk. Flower beds, stocked with vegetables, are planted alongside it. Aside from its utilitarian make up, the patio is charged with symbolism. Ren said the huts plan is based on the Adinkrahene symbol, which consists of three concentric circles, symbolizing charisma, leadership, and greatness.The patio was built using conventional framing methods, but is charged with symbolism. (Annabell Ren)Ren added that, today, the space is actively used by the local community for various events, offering a shaded resting area for gardeners and a venue for gatherings and celebrations. She also said that: This structure has become a vital part of the community, fostering connections and honoring cultural heritage.Ren told AN that New Office will take on one new client pro bono each year, so as to continue projects like this one. Ren said New Office is currently calling for our 2025 community partner.