Open House Chicago

CASL Open House Tour — Chicago Architecture Center Open House Chicago

Step inside the Kam L. Liu Building, CASL’s Chinatown Square headquarters — designed by award-winning firm Studio Gang and hub of the largest Asian American social service organization in the Midwest. Explore the Chinese American Service League (CASL) and discover how this Chinatown institution has shaped the neighborhood’s built environment for over 45 years.

Guided Tours

10:30am | 12:00pm | 1:30pm | 3:00pm (Saturday only)

Walk through CASL’s building and hear how its architecture reflects its mission to serve Chicago’s Chinese American and broader AAPI community.

Book Talk: CASL’s History Through Architecture

Sat 1:00pm | Sun 10:30am

Author Susan Blumberg-Kason discusses CASL’s architectural history and its influence on other Chinatown landmarks, featuring the work of architects Brian Lee, Ernie Wong, and Jeanne Gang. Blumberg-Kason is the author of When Friends Come From Afar: The Remarkable Story of Bernie Wong and Chicago’s Chinese American Service League (University of Illinois Press, 2024), which traces CASL’s evolution from its founding by Bernie Wong to its role today connecting Chinatown residents to daycare, immigration services, culinary education, and more. Copies available for purchase and signing. Proceeds from the book sale support CASL’s Pine Tree Senior Council.

PineTree Calligraphy & Dance Performance

Sat 2:00pm | Sun 11:30am

Enjoy traditional calligraphy demonstrations and dance performances from PineTree.

Gallery Exhibit

On view all weekend: a gallery showcasing CASL’s history and its impact on Chinatown through architecture.

Support CASL’s Mission

For over 45 years, CASL has helped Chicago’s Chinese American and AAPI communities thrive — from early childhood education to senior care to workforce development. Your visit today is a great first step. To keep this work going, consider a donation or explore volunteer opportunities at casl.org.

About Open House Chicago

Open House Chicago (OHC), one of the largest architecture and urban exploration festivals in the world, is back for its 16th year of celebrating architecture, culture and community. Use the CTA Rail Map (pdf) to discover neighborhoods across the city. This free public festival offers behind-the-scenes access to 200+ sites, including many not normally open to the public.