Pocket Guide to Chicago Architecture

I found this to be a very concise guide of relevant architectural landmarks for any visit to Chicago. This book provides architectural renderings and brief (half-page) histories of each building, and groups them into sections based on the order in which visitors to Chicago are likely to view them. This is a good supplement to any architectural tours of Chicago that may be taken. The glossary provides definitions and sometimes line drawings of architectural elements that novices to architecture would find informative and there is an index for architects and for buildings so that each can be referenced separately. A very good quick reference book for Chicago architecture. I know mine will be going with me on my next trip to Chicago.

An excellent and concise guide to the astonishing buildings to be found in downtown Chicago. The book covers the great buildings of the 19th century to modern skyscrapers by Mies, SOM, Murphy/ Jahn, KPF, Perkins & Will, et. al.The book is great because of its clear structure and handy size; downtown is divided into 3 neighborhoods each with their own map with buildings keyed by number. The 100+ buildings are then each given their own page w/ an architects fine line drawing of the building (some with close up details) on top and description below. There's also a glossary of Chicago archi-terms and everything is indexed by building and architect. The writing is user-friendly and often very entertaining -- brief historical backround of building and architect, followed by incisive an commentary as to WHY the building is famous and how it fits into the ongoing story of Chicago's architecture.One of the best portable guides to buildings that I have used in any city--highly recommended.

As a long-time fan of Access Guides and of the city of Chicago, I was pleased to find this pocket guide to Chicago architecture. Loved the history and all the visual detail "explained" that made it easy for me to visit and observe. This is a "must-have" for visitors and architecture buffs as well. It spurred me on to pick up the "skyline Chicago" videos. As well done as any Ken Burns documentary, these are great -- loved Chicago's Neighborhoods in particular.