Chicago has a long and storied past as a major industrial hub, so it's not surprising to find old factories, warehouses, and commercial buildings that were built back then. As the city evolved and these grand, sturdy structures were repurposed, the untouched upper levels or attic spaces came to life and are now used as unique venues for events, film, and photo shoots.
If you're unsure where to find these hidden gems, Giggster has you covered, featuring some of the finest attics and other venues in Chicago. You'll also find loft apartments and large open spaces, and though they're not always true "attics," they share a lot of the characteristics you're looking for: high ceilings, exposed brick, large windows, and open layouts.
Whether you're an artist who needs a setting with lots of natural light and a fantastic atmosphere, a startup that wants a non-traditional office that reflects your brand's personality, or someone who loves creating an unforgettable experience for guests, Giggster can help bring your vision to life. Book your perfect backdrop on our handy app today!
It's time to level up your celebration, corporate event, or shoot. Discover hidden gems and one-of-a-kind spaces like Ingersoll-Blackwelder Mansion on Giggster that will take your next gathering or project to new heights (literally!).
If you need a bit of inspiration or a ready-made set for your photography session, you'll love a cozy art house covered in vibrant murals. Even before stepping into the front door, you'll be captivated by this space, with lots of rooms including an attic that's completely transformable based on the look you want to create.
Do you need a picturesque location for weddings, private parties, or film production? Look to the historic Oak Park neighborhood for a Queen Anne-style home that looks like a mini castle. The rooms with exposed beams and modern appliances will catch your eye, and you don't need to go to different locations because each room provides a distinct backdrop for your shoot.
For an intimate party or a relaxing getaway with your closest friends, book a true loft home in a quiet location with easy access to the airport. Imagine a location featuring an attic, a spacious backyard to enjoy fresh air, a balcony, and expansive rooms, so you'll feel like you're in paradise at a home away from home.
A modern attic design can double as a studio, with a finished office space, excellent lighting, and great acoustics for stunning images.
Exceptional Variety & Quality: From upper-level studios and converted lofts to homes with top-floor areas, Giggster has it all. Choose from our 17 Chicago attic spaces and secure your dream venue for as little as just $100/hour.
Hassle-Free Booking: You can browse, check out the details and availability of a particular attic setting, and book it in just a few clicks on the Giggster app or website. Contact the site or venue owner directly to address your concerns and have your questions answered in minutes.
24-Hour Free Cancellation Policy: If something comes up and you need to postpone or cancel your booking, you can do so for free within 24 hours of confirmation, provided the booking is made at least 48 hours before the event or shoot.
Platform Protections: Accidents happen and plans fall through, which is why we offer optional coverage to protect you from those unexpected hiccups like accident property damage, liability issues, or even last-minute disruptions.
Some may not go out of their way to look for an attic space for an event, but if you want a versatile blank canvas that will give it a distinctive, urban-chic edge, this interesting venue won't disappoint.
Art Exhibitions – Raw Charm. Who says art exhibitions must only be held in art galleries or museums? For an exhibition unlike any other in the Windy City, embrace the captivating appeal of an attic. Their large, open spaces will give lots of room to breathe and display larger works or installations.
Private Parties – Exclusive Celebrations. An attic party in Chicago not only sounds cool but also looks and feels amazing. The inherent character means you don't need a ton of extra decor, and because it's usually tucked away from the street-level hustle, it feels intimate, even if it's a large gathering. Look for a bar with an attic or a mezzanine floor to double the fun.
Workshops and Classes – Inspiring and Light-Filled. For interactive seminars or classes, you'll want a more flexible, open area with plenty of natural light, and an attic fits the bill. Just ensure there are enough chairs, tables, or floor space for everyone attending.
Photography and Video Shoots – Above the Lens. If you're a visual content creator who needs a fresh perspective, you can't go wrong with an attic location. Many of the ones you'll find in Chicago are well-furnished, so they're ready for your crew.
Rehearsal Dinners – Toasts and Timber. Move away from hotel ballrooms or banquet halls for your pre-wedding celebration, and consider hosting it in an attic space. It's warm, cozy, and inviting, providing a scenic and natural backdrop for a relaxed meal and heartfelt speeches before the big day.
Attic venues in Chicago stand out for many reasons, but not all of them may be perfect for your event or professional project. Here are ideas to think about to help you make an informed choice.
Can it be transformed into whatever you want? This is all about the flexibility of the space. A great spot for your corporate event or celebration is one that lets your creativity shine and doesn't force you to work around its limitations.
Is it suitable for the occasion? This is a no-brainer, but you'll be surprised at how often people overlook critical details that impact their and their guests' overall experience. What you're looking for are functional areas that match your needs, the right atmosphere, and capacity.
Is it easily accessible? This covers how easy it is for everyone—your guests, vendors, and equipment—to get in and out of the attic. Good accessibility reduces stress for everyone, and a hard-to-access attic can become a headache, no matter how beautiful it may be.
The unmatched vibe and character, stunning backdrops, and fantastic natural light are just some of the things to love about attic venues in Chicago. But not everything about them is sunshine and rainbows, which is why it's helpful to know the benefits and drawbacks to prevent unmet expectations.
Advantages
That industrial-chic, exposed brick, timber-beam aesthetic isn't easy to replicate anywhere else, which automatically gives your event or photography session a memorable and exclusive feel.
Many attic spaces for rent in Chicago are found in homes, office buildings, and historic structures, which gives you more architectural variety and location options. That way, you don't need to search for other places to shoot a video or extend the party.
Numerous Chicago loft-style and attic venues have huge windows and even skylights, which flood the place with soft, natural light that's amazing for daytime events and shoots.
Disadvantages
Because many attics are in older buildings with only stair access, it can be a huge pain for guests to get there, especially for those with mobility issues.
High ceilings and exposed brick look great, but they can mean a lot of echo, so you might need to invest in sound-dampening solutions to ensure quality sound.
Old buildings, especially attics, can be tricky. They can get super hot in the Chicago summer and freezing in the winter if the HVAC isn't top-notch or the insulation isn't up to modern standards. You don't want uncomfortable guests!
An event in an awesome setting, like a Chicago attic? That sounds absolutely exciting. But before you head to town and book a venue, here's what you must remember to ensure its success.
Visit the Location – Don't just rely on photos and hope for the best. Go see the attic in person, ideally at the same time of the day your event will be held, to give you a feel for the place.
Size It Up – Once there, imagine your event taking place in the venue. Measure key areas if possible, and ensure there's plenty of room for the chairs and tables, or the overall setup, and that people can move around with ease.
Remember Comfort Control – The weather in Chicago can be pretty extreme, and you won't want your guests or attendees to freeze in winter and melt in summer. You might need portable fans or heaters.
Coordinate with Vendors – Because attics are often raw spaces, you'll likely be bringing in all your own vendors (catering, rentals, floral, and AV). Make sure all your vendors can do a site visit and are comfortable with the space's quirks.
Non-traditional spaces like attics can be a bit more affordable than polished, all-inclusive venues. But since you're renting in one of the world's most expensive cities, you might end up spending more than you anticipated. Read on for money-saving hacks and still enjoy that awesome industrial vibe.
Look for raw or minimally furnished spaces.
The more an attic comes with included furniture, AV equipment, or decor, the more expensive it can be. So, if you're on a tight budget, a true blank canvas space is your best bet, and just source the items you need more cheaply.
Keep your guest or crew count down.
Fewer people or crew members mean less on catering, drinks, and other per-person costs. Plus, you can book a smaller (and more affordable) venue.
Does it have to be a centrally located neighborhood?
River North and West Loop attics are popular and easily accessible, but they may come with a high price tag. Consider less trendy spots and locations just outside the heart of the city to discover affordable gems that are just as amazing.
Whether you're planning a birthday bash, a milestone celebration, an intimate pop-up, an art exhibition, or a workshop that needs a dose of inspiration, Giggster has a wonderful selection of attic spaces in Chicago with a built-in "wow" factor. Get the Giggster app and make your event legendary.
