Walking Architecture Tour | Chicago, IL

Chicago is known for building some of the world’s first skyscrapers, and while in Chicago this past weekend I was able to go on a two-hour architecture tour of the city. On this tour I was able to see how have design and technologies have changed over time. Our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable of the history, designs, and influences in the architecture world.

We stopped at various buildings that showed major developments in architectural technology and design from the mid 1800’s to the present day. I was able to see how architects adapted building styles to meet the styles of their era, as well as observe the cutting-edge engineering used to build taller than ever before. One fact that stuck out in my mind was how at one point in time according to building codes, skyscrapers could only be 20 stories high. Looking at many of the older buildings in the city, a “stair-step” effect can be seen, and this was due to the building code. After a certain date the codes changed and people were able to build up higher and higher, so you can note this visually in the buildings.

Not only was I able to see some extraordinary architecture within the city, but I was introduced to the bigger stories of Chicago architecture. I could have gone on for so much longer than the two hours we did. I found everything about the tour captivating and inspirational.