The force is with MAD Architects after their designs for the George Lucas museum were approved by Chicago City Council.

The $400 million tent-like complex will take up a spot along the shore of Lake Michigan, and exhibit artefacts and memorabilia from Lucas’ films, including Star Wars and Indiana Jones.

A scale model of the Millennium Falcon will also be on show, in addition to the filmmaker’s personal art collection, which features paintings by artist Norman Rockwell.

‘The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art will be a tremendous educational and cultural amenity for all Chicagoans, and a major addition to the city’s vibrant and renowned artistic community,’ said Lucas Museum of Narrative Art president Don Bacigalupi. ‘It will also deliver nearly 200,000 square feet of new green space and accessible parkland along the lakefront for all to enjoy.’

MAD Architects’ design includes three auditoriums – for film screenings, lectures and workshops – as well as a restaurant with 360-degree views of the city. The practice was forced to revise its plans, reducing the museum’s footprint, following criticism about the scale of the lakeside complex.

Construction could begin as early as next spring with the museum opening in 2019, although a legal challenge by a local parks protection group could derail the project. Friends of the Parks has launched legal proceedings against Chicago City Council and the two sides will meet at a court hearing on 10 November.