Before and after Mies: Chicago's Canyon of Skyscrapers

Bertrand Goldberg's Marina City . They are fun and subversive standing out across from the loop downtown. They embody a dated futurism, which I love.

Built when cars ruled.



This hulking structure is the Merchandising Mart. Fomerly owned by the Kennedy Family.


This building was voted most loved by Chicagoans. It mimics the curve in the EL line track.



Tribune Tower. This neo-gothic design was the winner of an open contest. Architects Howells and Hood were the designers.



Cantilevered bridge, a local innovation in its own right. This scene nods towards Chicago's manufacturing and rail past.



The canyon continues downtown.



There was a speakeasy at the top.



Willis Tower just doesn't seem right.



I love the geometry of this. Angles, notches and crags. Take note of the patterned positioning of the terraces.



In response to boxy Bauhaus.



Some more retro-futurism bordering the river.



The only building west of Lake Shore Drive. The Ogden family erected this when local pols were distracted. Fortunately it's a beauty.