While the Chicago School arose under such a chaotic and disheartening social situation during the late 19th century, rapid technological advancements and experimentations allowed it to grow and become a new style of architecture. By the end of the 19th century, architects adopted an eclectic way in designing buildings, without concerns for stylistic origins. New technologies and building materials encouraged innovation and experimentation. The development of crane elevator, electric motor for Elisha Otis’s safety elevator allowed the construction of much taller structures (Cobb 50). Also, the construction of fireproofed iron-framed structures with deep foundations contributed to the overall safety of infrastructure, and indirectly
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Upon its completion in 1888, the Rookery Building was the most prestigious office block in the city. Its architects maximized their clients’ profits by creating the greatest possible number of high-rent stores and well-lit office spaces. The Rookery was an early example of skeletal frame construction, as seen in fig 3. The brick exterior walls no longer carried the entire weight of the building. This enabled the architects to open the facades and provide enough daylight to penetrate the interior environment. However, the technical construction did not preclude aestheticism. As the building’s beautifully carved stone ornament demonstrated, the Rookery’s architects kept the balance between impression and permanence while keeping its functionality. From the street, the Rookery appeared to be a solid brick block, but in fact it was organized around a central light court, so to avoid any dark spots in the building. As shown in the interior space of Rookery in fig 4, tile on the walls facing this court reflected the greatest possible amount of light into the interior. Only the first two floors of the site were entirely covered. Shops lined the interior atrium as well as the street fronts (Kathleen 341).
Upon its completion in 1888, the Rookery Building was the most prestigious office block in the city. Its architects maximized their clients’ profits by creating the greatest possible number of high-rent stores and well-lit office spaces. The Rookery was an early example of skeletal frame construction, as seen in fig 3. The brick exterior walls no longer carried the entire weight of the building. This enabled the architects to open the facades and provide enough daylight to penetrate the interior environment. However, the technical construction did not preclude aestheticism. As the building’s beautifully carved stone ornament demonstrated, the Rookery’s architects kept the balance between impression and permanence while keeping its functionality. From the street, the Rookery appeared to be a solid brick block, but in fact it was organized around a central light court, so to avoid any dark spots in the building. As shown in the interior space of Rookery in fig 4, tile on the walls facing this court reflected the greatest possible amount of light into the interior. Only the first two floors of the site were entirely covered. Shops lined the interior atrium as well as the street fronts (Kathleen 341).