Art Space Issues

Artists’ workspaces have special needs that should be considered when planning to rehab a property, especially when creating a live/work arrangement.

Depending on the type of work you do, pay special attention to how your art needs can be integrated into the space safely. Ventilation and storage and disposal for hazardous/toxic materials are particularly important. In addition, you can explore ways to incorporate eco-friendly materials and technologies into your space, especially now that they are becoming increasingly available and affordable.

Ventilation

Ventilation is a key component for any space where art activities occur, especially when fumes, vapors or dust are involved. Proper ventilation is needed to ensure that the air you breathe is free from toxic, airborne materials, as well as prevent a buildup of vapors, which could catch fire or explode.

When looking at a space, make sure you find out if any ventilation is already in place. Keep in mind that installing proper ventilation in an existing property is several times more expensive than installing it when the building is first built or renovated.

If you are rehabbing your space and your production methods require special ventilation, work with an industrial hygiene and ventilation expert to design and/or install a proper ventilation system from the beginning.

For more in depth information on ventilation systems and how to maintain them, review Chapter 23: Safe and Healthy Spaces.

Hazardous Waste Storage and Disposal

Storage and disposal of hazardous materials is a primary concern for any art space, but especially if you are in a live/work environment. As you think about rehabbing your space, pay special attention to where you can locate activities that require toxic practices or emit fumes and gases. You also want to make sure you have a proper place to store hazardous art materials, such as acids, and dispose of waste.

For more in depth information on issues associated with working with hazardous materials, review Chapter 23: Safe and Healthy Spaces. You should also review Chapter 21: Utilities, which provides information on disposing of hazardous art materials.

Green Living and Working

As you begin thinking about rehabbing a property, you may want to consider how you can incorporate green technology into your space. These building materials and techniques will enable you to have an eco-friendly space that is healthier for you and the environment. Many green design techniques and material choices can be adapted for a variety of spaces.

You can access tips on how to incorporate green technology into your space by reviewing these charts: (insert hyperlink)

- Green Homes

Review Chapter 24: Green Practice for more information on making your space and art practice eco-friendly.

TIP: For more tips on incorporating green technology into a conversion, check out the Chicago Department of Environment’s report Best Practices for Green Building in Chicago and Chapter 23: Safe and Healthy Spaces.

TIP: Permit Wizard is an on-line program administered by the Chicago Department of Construction and Permits that assists you in finding and applying for the necessary applications and permits related to construction projects. Once you complete the questionnaire, a list of the required documents will be created.