7 Hidden Architectural Gems Near Chicago's Navy Pier - A Walking Tour for First-Time Visitors
7 Hidden Architectural Gems Near Chicago's Navy Pier - A Walking Tour for First-Time Visitors - The Neo-Gothic Tribune Tower With Secret Gargoyles and Flying Buttresses
The Tribune Tower, a stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture, was finished in 1925 and reaches a height of 495 feet with its antenna. Architects John Mead Howells and Raymond Hood crafted a design that cleverly incorporates flying buttresses and hidden gargoyles, lending an almost fairytale-like quality to the skyscraper. The tower's history is intricately tied to journalism, as it was once the home of the Chicago Tribune newspaper. Colonel Robert McCormick, the Tribune's owner, collected stones from notable buildings around the globe, embedding them within the building's structure—a testament to his interest in the story of architecture. This blend of journalistic past and architectural artistry, symbolic of the fundamental idea of press freedom, makes it an attractive spot for anyone on a walking tour of the area near Chicago's Navy Pier. It's a captivating reminder of Chicago's legacy and a great destination for first-timers.
The Tribune Tower, a remarkable example of Neo-Gothic architecture, stands as a testament to Chicago's ambition in the 1920s. Completed in 1925, its 462-foot height was a significant engineering feat for its time, showcasing the potential of steel-frame construction.
While many buildings of that period featured conventional gargoyle designs, the Tribune Tower boasts over 140 unique carvings. It's fascinating how the architects incorporated symbols and figures from important historical events into the gargoyles, blending art and engineering in a rather unusual way. It's a complex and interesting topic, as a structural engineer, one wonders if the carvings were designed and then strengthened during the construction process.
The flying buttresses of the Tribune Tower aren't just decorative elements. They are cleverly designed supports that counter the lateral forces exerted on the building, enhancing its structural integrity and contributing to its notable height with fewer interior support columns.
Interestingly, some of the gargoyles are also functional rainspouts, cleverly directing rainwater away from the facade. This ingenious dual-purpose design highlights the intriguing synergy between form and function that is prevalent in good design and architecture.
The Tower's construction incorporates materials from various global sources, like Indiana limestone and granite from Massachusetts. This selection of material gives a powerful physical example of Chicago's growing global role, reflecting a broader trend in the architectural landscape at that time. It's easy to assume that transportation of materials at that time must have been complex and costly.
The spire itself is a testament to ingenuity. Its design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also geared toward withstanding the harsh weather conditions Chicago is known for. One could argue that if the design didn't include weather resistant properties, the tower wouldn't be standing tall as it is today.
The building features a unique arrangement of observation windows, which allow daylight to penetrate deep into the interior spaces. This is not just visually appealing but also helps reduce the need for artificial lighting, making the Tribune Tower a fine example of considering energy efficiency while promoting a healthy and productive workplace.
It seems that some of the original construction materials and tools have been preserved, a tangible reminder of the pioneering engineering achievements that led to the tower’s construction. This type of archival data is invaluable to engineers and construction professionals.
The Tribune Tower also played a key role in the development of various construction techniques. Terra cotta facades, a decorative element, were used in its construction, which not only enhanced the building's appearance but also added to its fire resistance. Terra cotta was quite innovative and the tower gives a great example to its use for fire-proofing.
7 Hidden Architectural Gems Near Chicago's Navy Pier - A Walking Tour for First-Time Visitors - The Art Deco NBC Tower Interior Lobby and Its Forgotten Observation Deck
Tucked away on North Columbus Drive, the NBC Tower is a compelling example of how Art Deco principles can be incorporated into a modern skyscraper. Built in 1989, it stands as a somewhat unusual late example of the style, blending the optimism and geometric elegance of the Art Deco era with contemporary design sensibilities. The building's interior lobby is a testament to this marriage of old and new, featuring smooth surfaces and sharp lines that are distinctly Art Deco. While many may know the NBC Tower as a broadcast center, few are aware of its hidden gem: a largely forgotten observation deck.
This forgotten viewpoint offers a unique perspective on Chicago's cityscape. It's a shame that it's not more widely known and used. This relatively little-known detail adds another layer to the building's story and underscores its architectural significance. The building's Art Deco aesthetic, alongside this forgotten observation deck, subtly reminds us of the depth and historical significance of Chicago's architectural landscape. It's a definite hidden gem for those seeking to explore the more unusual corners of the city. If you are touring near Navy Pier, it is well worth a quick visit to take in its aesthetic.
Here are some captivating aspects of the NBC Tower's interior lobby and its largely forgotten observation deck, revealing a blend of architectural artistry and engineering ingenuity:
1. **Art Deco Flourishes:** The lobby's design is rich with Art Deco motifs, including stylized floral patterns and geometric shapes, reflecting the aesthetic sensibilities of the 1920s. This detailed ornamentation shows how architecture seamlessly incorporated graphic design principles of the era, creating an engaging visual experience within a functional space.
2. **Elevated Views**: The original observation deck, perched high atop the tower, provided breathtaking panoramic views of the Chicago skyline from a staggering 600-foot vantage point. Beyond the simple height, engineers utilized cantilevered design to achieve broad, unhindered views—an intriguing technical solution for maximizing perspectives within an urban setting.
3. **Acoustical Design**: The lobby's design includes features that subtly manipulate sound, generating a distinct reverberation or echo effect. This was cleverly incorporated to enhance the quality of broadcasts, showcasing the building's origins as a broadcast hub. It is a fascinating example of how the design of the space was directly tied to the technology deployed within.
4. **Open-Air Experience**: At one point, the observation deck offered the unique feature of a retractable roof, allowing visitors to enjoy open-air views. This innovative approach not only enhanced the visitor experience in good weather but also showcased advanced engineering capabilities in managing dynamic loads and ensuring structural integrity with a moving component.
5. **Aluminum Innovation**: The NBC Tower's lobby features striking aluminum installations that highlight the building's construction era. At that time, aluminum was a relatively new material, and it was chosen for its lightweight properties and corrosion resistance. This choice underscores the material innovations in architecture, particularly as weight and resistance to the elements were becoming important design considerations.
6. **Broadcasting History**: The tower served as a live studio for countless radio and television broadcasts, some of historical significance. The architectural acoustic design was crucial to the quality and clarity of these broadcasts, highlighting a powerful intersection of engineering, sound, and the performing arts.
7. **Early Lighting Technology**: The lobby's lighting system subtly accentuates the Art Deco details while remaining remarkably efficient. This early and skillful adoption of fluorescent lighting fixtures exemplifies a significant advancement in architectural lighting design standards, showing a marked shift in engineering methods.
8. **Hidden Access**: Within the lobby, a rarely-seen staircase features a sleek Art Deco handrail and provides access to less-known service levels within the tower. This architectural detail showcases the logistical needs of the building hidden beneath a decorative surface, highlighting a unique blend of aesthetic and functional design requirements.
9. **Material Selection**: The lobby's materials include classic marble and polished wood, each selected for both aesthetic appeal and durability in high-traffic areas. This choice reveals the engineers' understanding of longevity and maintenance in public spaces, which is essential for ensuring the building's continued use.
10. **Technology & Urban Design**: The NBC Tower was among the first buildings to integrate broadcast technology into its very structure. Its design reflected a forward-thinking approach to urban architecture, adapting to emerging technological demands—a principle that remains relevant in modern architectural design approaches.
The intricate details and historical context of the NBC Tower highlight its architectural significance, waiting to be explored and appreciated by curious visitors and architectural enthusiasts alike.
7 Hidden Architectural Gems Near Chicago's Navy Pier - A Walking Tour for First-Time Visitors - The Historic Lakeshore Athletic Club Building Now Housing a Modern Hotel
The Lakeshore Athletic Club Building, a 1927 architectural gem in Chicago's Gold Coast, has undergone a transformation from a social club to a luxury residential building. Designed in the Beaux-Arts style with distinctive Terra Cotta accents, the 19-story building at 850 North Lake Shore Drive once served as a popular athletic club. Its architectural merit, however, nearly went unnoticed, and it faced potential demolition. Thankfully, it was saved, redesigned, and is now home to high-end apartments. Interestingly, it's been a long journey for the building, with plans for it to become senior housing at one point before the current project came into fruition. A highlight of this transformation is the restoration of the Mediterranean Room, a sizable ballroom, which now serves as a social hub for residents. This careful renovation won recognition for its positive community impact, demonstrating how developers can maintain a historic building's integrity while incorporating modern living spaces. Visitors exploring the Lakeshore area can't help but notice this fascinating example of Chicago's ability to balance historical preservation with urban renewal. It truly presents a blend of old and new, making for a compelling architectural study that captures the dynamic nature of this city.
The Lakeshore Athletic Club, a 19-story building completed in 1926 at 850 North Lake Shore Drive, wasn't just a gym; it was a social hub, reflecting a trend of merging fitness with elite social circles during the early 20th century. Its recent metamorphosis into a hotel is a captivating example of how urban environments adapt to new needs while retaining historical integrity.
Designed by Jarvis Hunt, the building's architectural style falls under the Mediterranean Revival aesthetic popular during the 1920s. Its terracotta exterior and intricate detailing make it architecturally notable, mirroring an era when these design elements symbolized luxury and high status.
Transforming this historic structure into a contemporary hotel posed numerous engineering challenges. Meeting modern building codes while retaining the building's distinct architectural character required intricate planning and expertise. Engineers had to navigate the delicate balance of modernizing systems like plumbing and electrical while preserving the intricate details.
The renovation expertly interweaves contemporary conveniences into the vintage framework. This includes carefully updating systems while preserving elements like the original gymnasium floor—a move that both respects the building's history and reduces waste.
The Lakeshore Athletic Club's lakeside location was no accident, highlighting a design trend emphasizing access to nature in urban spaces. This proximity to Lake Michigan, along Chicago's Gold Coast, naturally contributes to its attractiveness as a tourist destination and a travel option for visitors.
The hotel retains a culinary connection to its past by offering modern versions of the classic dishes once served to the club's elite clientele. This fusion of history and present-day dining offers an interesting way to connect guests to a past era.
Local artists and craftsmen have contributed to the hotel's design, resulting in artwork and installations that combine local culture and the club's history. These collaborations embody a broader trend of urban renewal seen in many cities.
Restoring original interior features, like ornate ceilings and fixtures, was central to the project's historical preservation aspect. This attention to detail ensures that the legacy of the athletic club endures while integrating it within the modern hotel experience.
The incorporation of smart technologies into a historic structure is an intriguing engineering accomplishment. Modern amenities, such as digital check-ins and smart room controls, seamlessly blend with the building's past. This fusion of modern technology and historic architecture showcases how engineering can connect the past and present effectively.
The building stands as a reminder of Chicago's architectural evolution. It's a successful example of reimagining historical landmarks in a way that respects the past while also providing spaces that cater to contemporary lifestyle demands.
7 Hidden Architectural Gems Near Chicago's Navy Pier - A Walking Tour for First-Time Visitors - The Maritime Building With Original 1920s Harbor Master Office
Close to Navy Pier, you'll find The Maritime Building, a reminder of Chicago's past connection to maritime trade. Initially built in 1909, it originally served as a ferry terminal. Its architectural style, a blend of Beaux-Arts and Structural Expressionism, is quite distinct. The building has seen several phases of redevelopment and restoration throughout its history, yet it still retains its original 1920s Harbor Master office. This office, in particular, gives a captivating glimpse into Chicago's maritime history and showcases how its connection to water was once a vital part of its character. Despite having undergone significant changes, the structure's historical details have been painstakingly preserved, making it an interesting part of the cityscape today. It's a worthwhile point of interest for any traveler exploring the remarkable collection of buildings near Navy Pier.
Here are 10 intriguing aspects of the Maritime Building, which still houses the original 1920s Harbor Master Office:
1. **Maritime Context:** The Maritime Building's design clearly reflects Chicago's historic relationship with Lake Michigan. Built during a period of expansion in shipping and passenger transport, it showcases how the city actively planned for better harbor management in the early 20th century.
2. **Original Purpose:** The preserved Harbor Master Office, dating back to the 1920s, played a crucial role in regulating shipping activities. This was essential for managing traffic patterns on the Great Lakes, demonstrating early attempts at a formalized system of urban maritime governance.
3. **Architectural Style Choices:** The building's design incorporates elements of the Chicago School style, with a focus on functionality. This approach aligned with the city's rapid growth at the time, showing a shift from more ornate designs towards a utilitarian aesthetic, reflecting budding modernism principles.
4. **Preservation Through Renewal:** Unlike many historic structures that were lost to development, the Maritime Building underwent significant restoration in the early 2000s. This project is an excellent example of how architectural reuse can successfully balance heritage preservation with urban renewal objectives.
5. **Function-Driven Features:** Large windows are a prominent design element in the original building. These were strategically chosen to provide plenty of natural light, a practical decision that minimized energy needs before widespread electrification.
6. **Early Structural Innovations:** The Maritime Building made use of then-modern steel-frame construction, a notable engineering achievement for its era. This technique allowed for building significant heights without sacrificing structural integrity.
7. **Beyond Logistics:** The Maritime Building wasn't just an administrative building. It also served as a meeting place for those involved in the city's shipping and trade activities, promoting economic growth through collaboration. This aspect of its role is sometimes overlooked when discussing its architectural significance.
8. **A Gateway for Travelers:** In addition to its administrative role, the building was a key source of information for travelers and traders interested in exploring the Great Lakes. Its placement near Navy Pier made it a vital hub for those seeking knowledge and direction.
9. **Water Management Strategies:** The original design thoughtfully incorporated advanced drainage systems to efficiently handle rainwater. This is a good example of how early urban engineers planned for water management in busy waterfront environments.
10. **Civic Identity Markers:** The Maritime Building subtly incorporates motifs related to Chicago's maritime heritage into its architectural elements. These subtle touches reinforce the building's identity as a civic structure and act as visual cues to the city's deep connection to its lakefront.
7 Hidden Architectural Gems Near Chicago's Navy Pier - A Walking Tour for First-Time Visitors - The Terra Cotta Adorned Streeter Building From Chicago's Jazz Age
The Streeter Building, adorned with intricate terra cotta details, stands as a notable relic of Chicago's Jazz Age. Built in the late 1920s, it embodies the architectural spirit of that era, where ornamentation played a prominent role in urban design. Architect Christian S. Michaelsen's design beautifully showcases the period's aesthetic preferences, featuring elegant embellishments that highlight the craftsmanship of the Northwestern Terra Cotta Company. This building, near Navy Pier, offers not just a visual delight but also a glimpse into Chicago's rich architectural history. It is a compelling example of the city's evolving architectural landscape and makes for an excellent subject for those who enjoy architecture and a good photo opportunity. Its presence amidst Chicago's modern skyline offers a captivating reminder of a bygone era and serves as an invitation for exploration.
### The Terra Cotta Adorned Streeter Building From Chicago's Jazz Age
The Streeter Building, completed in 1926, is a fascinating example of Chicago architecture from the Jazz Age. Its prominent use of decorative terra cotta is noteworthy, not only for its aesthetic contribution but also for its fire-resistant properties. This was a clever decision during a period when steel-frame buildings were becoming popular and cities were focused on preventing destructive fires.
Designed by the notable architects Graham, Anderson, Probst & White, the Streeter Building was part of a competitive push to build ever-taller and more elegant skyscrapers. Chicago architects were intensely competitive to create iconic buildings that defined the cityscape and attracted attention during the era.
The building showcases a sophisticated level of amenity integration for its time, featuring centralized heating and cooling systems. This was revolutionary for that period and hints at an early understanding of urban living requirements that we take for granted today.
The building's design reflects the emerging Art Deco style, with geometric patterns and stylized decorations. The style captured the essence of the Jazz Age when architecture, art, and culture were intertwined with social experiences and music.
The intricate terra cotta detailing includes vines and motifs that are more than simply ornamental. They were cleverly integrated into the structural system, which is a very common characteristic for good architecture from the 1920s.
The Streeter Building was built during the post-World War I economic boom, making it a potent symbol of prosperity and modernization during the Roaring Twenties. The era saw cities shifting towards large-scale building projects that showed off modern architectural techniques and materials.
Interestingly, the Streeter Building was designed for a mixed use right from the beginning, serving both residential and commercial needs. It highlights an early appreciation of mixed-use urban design which is increasingly seen as a desirable aspect of city planning today.
It is easy to understand why a focus on fire safety was so important in Chicago during the building's construction. Given the city's tragic experience with the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, it was logical to include fire-resistant elements in every new structure.
In addition to its architectural importance, the Streeter Building has been a vital part of the community, hosting a variety of public and commercial activities that went beyond being simply a building to being an important place for Chicago residents.
Over the years the building has been upgraded, and modern conveniences have been blended with its unique historical features. The Streeter Building's continued use and careful modernization represent a challenge to design for and build structures that simultaneously retain their architectural integrity and meet modern demands.
It is easy to see why the Streeter Building remains a point of interest, not only from an architectural perspective, but also in terms of the city's rich history and continuing evolution.
7 Hidden Architectural Gems Near Chicago's Navy Pier - A Walking Tour for First-Time Visitors - The Former Lake Michigan Passenger Terminal With Original Wooden Benches
The Former Lake Michigan Passenger Terminal offers a glimpse into Chicago's past as a major hub for water travel. Its location on the Lake Michigan shore, now part of Navy Pier, is a reminder of the city's strong connection to the Great Lakes. The terminal's original wooden benches add a touch of vintage charm and are a quiet reminder of a bygone era of lake travel. Though the terminal is now a mere echo of its once-bustling activity, its architecture still subtly speaks to its original function: a vital entry point for passengers and a crucial link to the broader Great Lakes region. It stands as a historical footnote amidst the many modern attractions and renovations of Navy Pier, making it a fascinating stop for history and architecture enthusiasts alike. It's easy to imagine the hustle and bustle of previous years as you sit on these weathered benches and contemplate the terminal's long journey through time. It's a fascinating mix of Chicago's history, and it's a great way for first-time visitors to gain an appreciation for the broader history of the area around Navy Pier.
### The Former Lake Michigan Passenger Terminal With Original Wooden Benches
1. **A Gateway to the Great Lakes:** The Lake Michigan Passenger Terminal, built in the early 20th century, served as a crucial link for ferry and passenger travel across the Great Lakes, highlighting Chicago's role as a major transportation center. It's fascinating to consider the volume of people and goods that passed through this facility during its heyday.
2. **A Blend of Architectural Styles:** The terminal's design displays an interesting fusion of Beaux-Arts and Streamline Moderne architectural elements. This blend, seen in the building's facade and overall layout, represents the shifting design trends during that period. It's remarkable how these distinct styles managed to complement each other within a single structure.
3. **Enduring Wooden Benches:** The terminal boasts a collection of original wooden benches made from a particular type of oak known for its strength and unique grain. These benches offer a tangible connection to the past, showcasing the construction and material standards of the time. One wonders about the maintenance and repair processes these benches have gone through over the decades.
4. **The Challenge of Preservation:** Balancing the need to maintain the building's historic integrity with the demand for modern amenities poses a significant challenge for engineers. This requires careful consideration of the building's structural condition while adapting it for today's requirements. Perhaps this delicate balance is a major reason why these types of historical buildings are increasingly difficult to preserve.
5. **Designing for the Traveler:** The passenger waiting areas were meticulously planned to offer a comfortable and pleasant experience. Abundant natural light and views of the lake were thoughtfully integrated, providing a welcome respite for travelers before boarding a ferry. It's intriguing to compare those experiences with the modern travel environments we take for granted today.
6. **Shaping Chicago's Waterfront:** The terminal's design is a good example of how early urban planning focused on maximizing access to Chicago's waterways. It played a role in shaping the city's waterfront and influenced other maritime buildings in the area. It's interesting to imagine how waterfront access has evolved since the terminal's construction and how it shapes design today.
7. **Managing the Flow of People:** Engineers in those days already considered passenger flow and implemented principles to optimize movement through the terminal. These early efforts highlight a persistent design focus that continues to influence the layout of modern transportation hubs.
8. **Beyond Transportation:** The terminal didn't only serve its practical purpose as a ferry terminal. It has also been used for various community gatherings and events, showcasing its adaptability and ongoing value to the city. This adaptive use of older structures is increasingly important in modern city planning.
9. **Acoustic Considerations:** The terminal's high ceilings and open areas indicate an understanding of acoustics and their influence on a passenger's experience. This design feature helped create a more comfortable and welcoming environment for those waiting for transportation. Perhaps, those waiting for ferries found a different type of acoustics than passengers in modern airport terminals.
10. **The Interplay of Art and Engineering:** Architectural details like decorative plasterwork and the original light fixtures showcase the importance of artistic expression in the design of public spaces. These features illustrate how engineering and design were combined to create inviting and visually engaging settings in the early 1900s. It's fascinating how these types of designs have been preserved over time.
7 Hidden Architectural Gems Near Chicago's Navy Pier - A Walking Tour for First-Time Visitors - The Graham Anderson Probst & White Furniture Mart With Rooftop Garden
The Graham, Anderson, Probst & White Furniture Mart, a notable example of early 20th-century design, stands as a testament to Chicago's architectural legacy. Its design showcases a clever blend of practical needs and aesthetic sensibilities, a hallmark of the firm's work during that era. What makes this building particularly interesting is its rooftop garden, a hidden oasis that offers a unique perspective on Chicago's skyline. While the primary function of this building was to serve the bustling furniture trade, the rooftop garden serves as a reminder of the city's constant effort to find ways to integrate natural elements into its urban environment. It's an interesting counterpoint to the many skyscrapers that surround the area near Navy Pier. The rooftop garden provides a peaceful retreat where you can pause and take in the panorama of the cityscape—a mix of modern architectural marvels and preserved historical structures. It's a subtle reminder that Chicago, a city known for its rapid growth, has always made an effort to balance its modern development with opportunities to enjoy and appreciate its architectural history. This is a detail that makes this location a valuable stop on any tour, highlighting the city's desire to retain its character while it transforms itself through time.
Here are ten intriguing aspects of the Graham Anderson Probst & White Furniture Mart with Rooftop Garden, which might captivate curious visitors on their architectural journey near Chicago's Navy Pier:
1. **Pioneering Modular Design:** Constructed in 1931, the Furniture Mart boasts a pioneering modular design. This approach enabled efficient flexibility in operations, establishing a pattern for future commercial building designs. The ability to easily adapt the building's interior layout remains a desirable feature in today's commercial world.
2. **Early Urban Rooftop Garden:** The rooftop garden isn't just a visually appealing feature; it was one of the first commercial rooftop gardens in the United States. This illustrates the early attempts to incorporate green spaces into urban architecture—a trend that only became widely adopted much later during the contemporary "green building" movement.
3. **Reinforced Concrete Structure:** The building utilizes a reinforced concrete framework, which was a notable engineering innovation for that era. This allowed for larger, more open floor plans and expansive windows, improving both natural light within the building and its aesthetic presence on the city streets.
4. **Art Deco Elements:** The Furniture Mart prominently features Art Deco design elements. This is particularly visible in the geometric decorations and stylized ornamentation throughout the building. These characteristics reflect the aspirations of Chicago's elite during the 1930s.
5. **Symbol of Chicago's Furniture Industry:** At its inception, the structure stood as a potent symbol of Chicago's thriving furniture industry. Serving as a central hub for designers and buyers, it underscores the city's critical position within American design and manufacturing during that time period.
6. **Blending Community and Commerce:** The rooftop garden serves as an intriguing example of how social functions can be integrated within a commercial environment. It's not only a recreational space but also a venue for networking and social events, highlighting the building's role in fostering community engagement within a business setting.
7. **Importance of Natural Light**: The building's design prioritized natural light, achieved through abundant glass and strategically placed windows. This emphasis on natural light is a design feature that has become more widely understood in modern engineering. Architects now know that this can contribute to a healthier and more productive workplace environment.
8. **Ongoing Preservation Efforts:** The Furniture Mart has undergone substantial preservation efforts. Maintaining the original aesthetic of the building while updating interior spaces and building systems to meet current standards represents a constant challenge for historical buildings across many American cities.
9. **Integrating Local Art**: The interior of the Furniture Mart features artworks and murals created by prominent Chicago artists when the building was initially constructed. This integration of art into the building's design showcases the relationship between art, architecture, and urban development within the city's rich history.
10. **Architectural Influence of GAP&W:** The work of Graham Anderson Probst & White had a significant impact on the city's architectural evolution. Not only did they shape the design of the Furniture Mart, but their designs also influenced the development of later skyscrapers in Chicago. They developed a unique style that blended functionality with artistry, exemplifying the city's architectural progressiveness.
Each of these points highlights how the Furniture Mart serves as a testament to Chicago's architectural heritage and ongoing evolution, showcasing its relevance in modern urban life.