Chicago School of Architecture

Before starting this assignment, read and watch the following items: Read this brief definition: “The Chicago School is also known as the Commercial Style and the American Renaissance Style. In the last quarter of the 19th century, architects and engineers in Chicago developed the steel-frame skyscraper that would become the emblematic building of the 20th century. A commercial Chicago School of Architecture building was taller than its masonry neighbors, usually more than six stories and as tall as twenty stories. Chicago School of Architecture buildings were rectangular with a flat, corniced roof. Because the exterior walls were not load bearing, they had large areas of glass, terra cotta or other ornamental finish. Louis Sullivan was the most influential architect of the Chicago School. His buildings, like a classical column, had a base or several stories, a shaft arranged in vertical bands, and an elaborate cornice of several stories.” Remember, Chicago was not the only city to have buildings in the Chicago School style. You can find them all over the world. Next, view the following YouTube video (Length 1:23): “Understanding the Chicago School of Architecture” Also watch this video (Length 6:47): “The Amazing History of Chicago School Architecture” The following link may also be helpful because it discusses more characteristics of the style and provides specific examples: American Architecture Series: Chicago School. For your task below, note there are specific characteristics that help identify the Chicago School Style of Architecture largely from the late 1800s to early 1900s. They may include: The use of fireproof materials and steel The addition of hydraulic elevators The economic need for a high-rise design The grid design A defined base and structural foundation Repetition of the middle floors A dramatic cornice at the top Wide and horizontal design Windows that do not open in center and/or large arched windows Terra Cotta exterior Designed for maximum light and air flow. YOUR TASKS: Find an example of a building that is considered a design of the Chicago School of Architecture. Give all of the required identifying information of an artifact: name of the architect, name of the structure, location of the structure, date structure was built. Describe at least three characteristics of your building that classify it in the style of the Chicago School of Architecture (see list above). Remember everything should be written in your own words. Supply a link to an image or photo (or copy/paste a photo) into your response.