Whether it's a public lecture, seminar or stage performance; a conference, retreat or exhibition; or a corporate presentation or catered banquet, International House at the University of Chicago offers a setting unlike any other in the city­and everything you need to ensure a successful event. Designed by the legendary Chicago architectural firm of Holabird and Root, the nine-story gothic building centers around a fountain courtyard and soars above the Midway Plaisance, site of the 1893 Columbian Exposition. Facilities include the spacious Assembly Hall, handsome meeting rooms, elegant banquet facilities, the Tiffin Café and accommodations for more than five hundred residents and guests.

A Place for Your Group

We want to share this unique international setting with Chicago’s communities—university departments, international businesses, cultural institutions, performing arts groups, non-profit organizations and student groups. We offer a vibrant cultural atmosphere and elegant venues, as well as, the professional support you need to make your event truly unforgettable. We invite you to consider International House when planning your next event.

A Rich History

There are five original International Houses - in Berkeley, Chicago, New York, Paris and Tokyo. They were all built with funds provided by John D. Rockefeller, Jr., at the suggestion of Harry Edmonds, a YMCA official. Both men believed that if American and foreign students could live, work and study together in a comfortable multicultural environment this would lead to friendship and increased international understanding. Since International House at the University of Chicago first opened its doors in 1932, it has provided a 'home away from home' for over 30,000 persons.

Bringing People Together

International House is more than just a residence for individuals from around the world. Educational and cultural programs such as music, dance and theatrical performances, forums and debates on world issues, and our cultural celebrations are among the hundreds of activities enjoyed by International House residents and members of the Chicago community.

A Place to Stay

International House now offers a range of overnight accommodations to conference attendees and affiliated guests including two deluxe guest suites featuring queen beds, private baths and air-conditioning, as well as, a limited number of newly-renovated single occupancy rooms featuring queen beds and shared common bathrooms. All guest rooms feature phones, internet access, television, and linens.

Assembly Hall

The beautiful cathedral windows, colorful display of international flags, and rich hues of oak paneling give the spacious Assembly Hall optimum elegance and grandeur. Equipped with a balcony and a full stage including a newly-restored Steinway grand piano, dressing rooms, projection booth and oak floors, the Assembly Hall is ideal for visual and performing arts, cultural festivals, conferences, seminars, dances and gala dinners. The Hall can accommodate five hundred guests for performances, conferences and receptions, and two hundred guests for banquets. Air-conditioning now available - beginning May 1, 2008, the Assembly Hall will be air-conditioned.(Image 1 | Image 2)

The Coulter Lounge

The Coulter Lounge is an impressive room with a view of the historic Midway Plaisance. It boasts high ceilings, handsome oak paneling, leaded glass windows, and a stone fireplace. The Coulter Lounge, with its unique qualities of both an old-world boardroom and a private study, is the ideal room for seminars, corporate meetings, and receptions. The Lounge can accommodate fifty guests in a theatre-style or banquet setting and thirty guests for a board meeting. (Image 1 | Image 2)

The Home Room

The Home Room is a bright and elegant lounge graced with cathedral ceilings, chandeliers, and a grand piano. Located on the second floor, this room offers striking views of the University of Chicago Campus. This intimate room is ideal for recitals, banquets, lectures, symposiums, and multi-media presentations. The Home Room can accommodate up to sixty people for banquets and as many as eighty-five for receptions and recitals. (Image 1 | Image 2)

The Map Room

The Map Room is a bright and charming gathering room suitable for all your needs. Because of its open space and convenient location, it is ideal for exhibits, demonstrations, workshops and classes. The space can accommodate thirty people for a classroom setting and fifty people for theatre-style seating. (Image 1 )

The National Room

Adjacent to the Home Room, the National Room is equipped with an adjoining kitchen, making it an ideal space for small banquets, receptions and catered luncheon or dinner meetings. This room can accommodate sixty guests for a banquet and seventy guests for a reception or recital. (Image 1 | Image 2)

The Tiffin Boardroom

Ideal for intimate receptions and dinners, private executive meetings, or as a break-out room for a conference, the Tiffin Boardroom with its historic oak conference/dining table can seat 12 guests. Basked in natural light, the Tiffin Boardroom offers a lovely view of the landscaped Courtyard. (Image 1 | Image 2)

Download a facilities rental application for hosting your next event at the International House. Completed applications will be accepted by fax or email if scanned in PDF format. To see more of I-House take a virtual tour, learn about our guest rooms, or view our community spaces.