Chicago is known as the cradle of modern architecture. Some of the most innovative architects in the world made Chicago the showplace for their designs. Iconic figures such as Ludwig Mies Van der Rohe, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Louis Sullivan are only some of the great visionaries who created the visual landscape of downtown Chicago. Since the meaning behind the name KOVAL is someone who ‘for
ges ahead’ or does something out of the ordinary, we decided to go on a Modern Skyscraper Tour to appreciate how others have pushed the boundaries toward the sky.
Federal Plaza
"Flamingo"
Gazing up at the massive structures, one cannot help but be mesmerized by their simplicity. The calming serenity of the Federal Plaza with its vibrant pop of color from Alexander Calder’s “Flamingo”, was perfectly crafted by Van der Rohe. He wanted to offer an oasis for people in the midst of all the chaos going on in downtown; with its granite tiles flowing calmly from the plaza into the lobby of the John C. Klycyznski Building. This is a hallmark of Van der Rohe who emphasized the connectedness of buildings and their surroundings. His clean lines, and stylized simplicity are evident in his famous phrase: “Less is more.” Standing in the middle of Federal Plaza, it is easy to agree.
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Inland Steel Building |
The Inland Steel Building, another highlight of the tour, embodies another phrase coined by Van der Rohe, “form follows function.” It was built by SOM in 1957, and was the first skyscraper to be built in Chicago after the Great Depression and one of the most innovative for its day.. The Inland Steel Building was the premier example of clear-span construction, meaning the entire weight of the building is supported by 7 external columns. However, it was probably its claim to being the first to have built-in air conditioning that made its early tenants most appreciative. Indeed, the cooler work environment and lack of interior columns transformed office culture in the US. Its communal open spaces and glimmer of blue green glass created the sleek minimalist structure reminiscent of a Mad Men ad agency look.
The Xerox Center is another building that serves as a pioneer of modern form. The architect that built it, Helmut Jahn, covered the outside of the building with reflective glass, so that it would mirror its two iconic neighbors- the Chase Tower and the Inland Steel Building. Basking in the reflected glory of its neighbors , Jahn was able to integrate the Xerox Center with its surrounding, rather than trying to draw attention from them. Another student of Van der Rohe, his attention to detail and and masterful form, do his mentor proud.
The legendary Chicago skyline was built by architects that envisioned something new- they "forged ahead" to create a city unlike any other.
