Krause Music Store

04/07/2025

Krause Music Store Chicago: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Introduction

The Krause Music Store, located at 4611 North Lincoln Avenue in Chicago’s vibrant Lincoln Square neighborhood, stands as a remarkable testament to early 20th-century American architecture and the city’s rich commercial history. Commissioned in 1921 by German immigrant William P. Krause and completed in 1922, it uniquely combines a family residence with a commercial storefront, embodying the era’s urban mixed-use design. Most notably, the building features the last architectural commission of Louis Sullivan, the celebrated “father of skyscrapers” and pioneer of the Chicago School of Architecture, whose organic terra cotta facade exemplifies his enduring design philosophy of “form follows function.” Despite periods of transformation—including its closure during the Great Depression and decades as a funeral parlor—the Krause Music Store has been meticulously preserved and restored, earning designation as a Chicago Landmark and inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, it invites visitors not only to admire its intricate terra cotta ornamentation and architectural innovation but also to engage with Chicago’s evolving cultural landscape through guided tours, special events, and its position within the historic Lincoln Square community. This comprehensive guide provides essential information on visiting hours, accessibility, ticketing, and travel tips to help visitors plan an enriching and memorable experience. For those seeking to explore Chicago’s architectural heritage, the Krause Music Store offers an unparalleled glimpse into the legacy of one of America’s most influential architects and the city’s historic urban fabric (The Clio; Architectural Record; Chicago Architecture Center).

Historical Overview
Architectural Significance
Visiting Information
Neighborhood Highlights
Visitor Etiquette and Practical Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Recommendations
References

Historical Overview

Commissioned in 1921 by William P. Krause, a German immigrant and entrepreneur, the Krause Music Store was envisioned as a mixed-use building, housing a music retail store at street level with a family residence above (The Clio). William Presto, the project’s original architect, enlisted Louis Sullivan specifically for the design of the storefront façade, making it the final work in Sullivan’s illustrious career (Architectural Record).

The store initially flourished during the 1920s, selling musical instruments and phonographs. However, the Great Depression led to its closure in 1929. The building subsequently operated as a funeral home for nearly 60 years, a period during which Sullivan’s iconic terra cotta façade was preserved even as the interior evolved (The Clio).

In the late 20th century, preservation efforts spearheaded by new owners and the local community led to a meticulous restoration of the façade. Designated as a Chicago Landmark in 1977 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2006, the Krause Music Store stands today as a testament to Chicago’s commitment to architectural heritage (Architectural Record).

Architectural Significance

The Krause Music Store is celebrated for its extraordinary terra cotta façade, a hallmark of Sullivan’s organic approach to design. The façade features bilateral symmetry with a large, recessed display window framed by intricate leafy motifs, geometric forms, and a prominent cartouche marked with the letter “K” and the year “1922” (City of Chicago Landmark Designation Report).

Sullivan’s design philosophy, encapsulated in the phrase “form follows function,” is evident here: the ornate façade not only attracts attention but also frames the commercial offerings within, acting as a “richly flowing picture frame” for the store. The use of glazed terra cotta allowed for the creation of detailed, durable ornamentation, produced by the Northwestern Terra Cotta Company (City of Chicago Landmark Designation Report, p. 4).

Critics have noted a contrast between the highly decorative façade and the more modest building behind it, a reflection of Sullivan’s limited commission to the storefront only. Nevertheless, the Krause Music Store remains a celebrated example of late Prairie School and early Art Deco influences, and a key piece of Sullivan’s legacy (City of Chicago Landmark Designation Report, p. 5).

Visiting Information

Hours and Admission

The Krause Music Store is currently occupied by Studio V Design, Inc. and is not open for regular public interior tours. However, the remarkable façade is freely viewable from the sidewalk at any time during daylight hours. No tickets or reservations are required to visit the exterior.

During citywide events such as Open House Chicago, special interior tours may be offered. Check the event organizer’s schedule for dates and registration details.

Accessibility

The sidewalk in front of the Krause Music Store is wheelchair accessible and suitable for visitors with mobility needs. The neighborhood is generally pedestrian-friendly and navigable.

Guided Tours and Events

While there are no regular guided tours focusing solely on the Krause Music Store, several Chicago architecture tours include it as a highlight. During special events like Open House Chicago, guided tours of the interior may be available (Chicago Architecture Foundation).

Location and Travel Tips

Address: 4611 N. Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, IL 60625
Nearest CTA Train: Brown Line – Western Station (short walk to the site)
Bus Routes: Several CTA bus lines serve Lincoln Avenue
Parking: Metered street parking is available nearby, but use of public transit is recommended due to limited spaces (Choose Chicago)
Best Time to Visit: Daylight hours for optimal visibility and photography

Neighborhood Highlights

Lincoln Square is known for its blend of historic architecture, independent shops, and lively community atmosphere. After visiting the Krause Music Store, consider exploring:

Old Town School of Folk Music
Davis Theater
Café Selmarie and Gene’s Sausage Shop
Swedish American Museum (short ride away)
Welles Park

The area is ideal for strolling, dining, and cultural exploration (Choose Chicago).

Visitor Etiquette and Practical Tips

Respect Privacy: The building is an active office; please do not attempt to enter unless participating in an authorized event.
Photography: Exterior photography is welcome; early morning or late afternoon light best highlights the terra cotta details.
Accessibility: The sidewalk is accessible; interior wheelchair access may vary during special events.
Restrooms: Available in nearby cafes and restaurants.
Safety: Lincoln Square is a safe neighborhood, but standard travel precautions apply (Timeless Travel Steps).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Krause Music Store’s visiting hours? A: The façade is viewable from the sidewalk at any time during daylight hours. Interior access is available only during special events.

Q: Is there an admission fee? A: No, viewing the exterior is free; special events may require advance registration.

Q: Is the building wheelchair accessible? A: The exterior sidewalk is accessible; interior access depends on event arrangements.

Q: Can I take photographs? A: Yes, photography of the exterior is encouraged.

Q: Are guided tours available? A: The store is included in some Chicago architecture walking tours and during Open House Chicago.

Summary and Recommendations

The Krause Music Store is a remarkable piece of Chicago’s architectural heritage, representing the final creative vision of Louis Sullivan. Its ornate terra cotta façade stands as an enduring symbol of the city’s design innovation and historic preservation. While regular interior access is limited, the building’s exterior can be enjoyed year-round, offering a rewarding experience for architecture enthusiasts, historians, and casual visitors alike.

Enhance your exploration by downloading the Audiala app for guided audio tours and insider tips on Chicago’s historic sites. Stay connected via social media and official channels for updates on special events and opportunities to tour the Krause Music Store’s celebrated interior.