Chicago School (architecture)

The Chicago School of architecture, active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, revolutionized city skylines with innovations in building design. It emphasized the use of steel-frame construction, enabling taller buildings, and large windows to maximize natural light. Architects favored practical, functional designs often featuring a tiered, grid-like appearance, reflecting modern urban life. This style marked a shift from ornate, decorative architecture to a focus on structure and utility, laying the groundwork for modern skyscrapers. Notable examples include the Home Insurance Building and the Reliance Building, representing a breakthrough in how cities could grow vertically.