The project is the adaptive reuse of an existing church in Markham, IL converting into an Event, Culture and Art Center. The total project area is 9,400 sf. Program consists of a multi-purpose event space and supporting programs, including offices, meeting rooms, utility rooms, bathrooms and exhibition lobby. The space will be expanded to hold 450 people. This will be a two-phase process; renovation of the existing space- which is under way- and expansion, which consists of addition of a glass linkage between the two existing event spaces, an all glass enclosure with dual exhibition and entry lobby functionality and a new facade.

Besides the role of the center in promoting the culture, the exhibition will be unique in that it will house and display worldwide acclaimed authentic African and Bronze art, created by the Edo People and Benin Nation of Africa. Members of the Akugbe-Oretin Development Association have established channels and relationships which will enable replicas of the Benin Bronzes to be imported directly from Nigeria and displayed at the Akugbe-Oretin Event, Culture and Arts Center to tell the story of the Edo people and the Benin Empire. Stories of its art, craftsmanship, international trade success, progressive governance, and faith that led to its unparalleled success will be shared. It will be an inspiring historic account, which up to this point has not been widely told.