Built in 1916 in memory of Regina Watson of Chicago, a musician and teacher, this studio was donated by a group of her friends, along with funds for its maintenance. Originally designed to serve as a composers’ studio with room for performance, Watson was used as a recital hall for chamber music for a brief period.
The Classical roots of the building design are clearly evident in its symmetry, pure geometry, clean lines, and restrained decoration. The studio is fronted by a handsome portico in the Roman Doric order composed of six fluted porch posts, each placed directly in front of a pilaster. Doric pilasters appear at each corner of the studio, and casement windows light the interior.
Renovated in 1993, Watson became the first barrier-free studio on the property. Today, 21 of the 31 studios have expanded access, with succeeding studio renovations planned for increasing accessibility.
