The Architect and the Chicago Skyscraper

“[The Rookery’s] dramatic interior is one of the best examples of [Burnham and Root] working together, each contributing to the architectural quality of the outcome” (34).

The Book

Daniel H. Burnham: Visionary Architect and Planner by Kristen Schaffer attempts to remedy the past treatment of Burnham by showing his influence in designing architecture, as well as managing an architecture firm. According to Schaffer, Burnham deserves more credit for his work in designing numerous significant buildings, as opposed to history focusing on his managerial skills.

There are five sections to the book: a brief introduction and historical treatment, Burnham’s work with his first architecture partner (John Root), the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair and immediately following, the City Beautiful movement and later buildings, and historical treatment. These sections are more focused on Burnham’s professional work and an in-depth look at significant buildings. A reader learns of architectural detail in a way that is accessible and gains insight into the mind of Burnham. The main takeaway is that Burnham had a wide-ranging impact on architecture, the role and look of the office building, city planning, and firm management.

One of the best parts about this book are the numerous photographs showcasing the wide variety of buildings Burnham designed or collaborated on. Of course, Burnham is known for his work in Chicago (including The Rookery and Marshall Fields, now Macy’s), but he also designed significant buildings in Washington, DC (Union Station), New York City (Flatiron Building), Philadelphia (Wanamaker’s, now Macy’s), and London (Selfridge’s). The text frequently refers to the photographs to help the reader see the intricacies of the architecture and development in Burnham’s design.

The Place

The Rookery is one of those buildings that words have a difficult time describing. At the time it was built, it was the largest office building in Chicago (eleven stories) and the indoor light court leaves visitors with a sense of awe. We were downtown Chicago one day and decided to stop in The Rookery. It is located just down the block from the Chicago Board of Trade and while the eleven stories of the Rookery may appear dwarfed, it still holds its own and the interior is breathtaking. Because the building houses shops and eateries (as well as businesses) you are able to walk in off the street and explore the lobby. Visitors will find information about both the original construction and the renovation by Frank Lloyd Wright.

If you would like to explore The Rookery further, the Chicago Architecture Center offers several walking tours that include this historic skyscraper. While I haven’t been on one of these specific tours, I have been on another tour by the Center and it was informative and interesting.