Builders thoughts
Exploring Chicago’s Iconic Architecture and Vibrant Interiors
So, I finally made it to Chicago. First time, people! And let me tell you, I had the high expectations that you only get from a city with a skyline that looks like it came straight out of a futuristic movie. And it did not disappoint. Chicago is where the old meets the new, and somehow, they get along pretty well.Chicago’s cityscape is constantly evolving, and it's a perfect buffet for any design enthusiast., some bits that totally slap and you cant help but go back for more but others that make you wonder if someone was on something strong when they drew up the plans.
Architecture: Where Old Meets New
Every street has its own vibe. You walk down one and feel like you're stepping into a 1920s movie. You turn the corner and find yourself in something that looks like it came out of a sci-fi movie. And I’m here for all of it.
Let’s talk about the Tribune Tower for a second. Gothic Revival. It's got the grandeur. It’s the kind of building that says, "Look at me, I’m classic and I’m going to stick around for a while." It’s like a timeless piece of jewelry, sure, you can get all trendy with your diamond studs, but the classics? They don’t go out of style. The Aqua Tower designed by Studio Gang is the opposite: sleek, curvy, and modern, kind of like the cool younger sibling that keeps the family tradition alive while adding some flair. Honestly, I didn’t know architecture could make me feel all kinds of things until I saw Aqua. It feels like a modern take on what the city’s skyline needed. It’s a city where you can go from admiring the intricate detailing of historical facades to witnessing the boldness of contemporary design in a single glance.
But it’s not just about the buildings. What makes Chicago’s design truly special is the connection between architecture and nature. The green roofs and vibrant parks are proof that the city knows how to make the concrete jungle feel more like an urban oasis. Millennium Park is the best example. The BP Bridge and Lurie Garden seamlessly connect the built environment with lush greenery, making the park feel like one giant, functional work of art. Chicago isn’t just about impressive facades; it’s about creating spaces that work for people, and that’s something I admire.
For more urban commentary, see here .
But let’s be real, Chicago also has its fair share of glass boxes. The ones that look like they belong in a dystopian movie. Mies van der Rohe’s designs, like the Seagram Building , gave way to the literal rise of the glass-walled, lifeless towers we see scattered across cities today. While the idea of minimalism is meant to be sleek, I sometimes feel like the buildings end up as the architectural equivalent of a blank stare. Completely void of charm or character. While Mies’ intention was to create structures with a sense of purity and clarity, these buildings often feel like a cold, uninspired box. Sure, the “less is more” philosophy stripped the heart out of design and left us with something that offers nothing to connect with.
Interiors: Where Details Matter
Chicago’s interior design scene is just as rich and diverse as its architecture, though I was limited by time and how many buildings I could enter, what I saw, I swooned over. From quirky airport walkways to chic restaurant vibes, there’s inspiration everywhere. One of my favorites was a restaurant called Momotaro. It was the perfect balance of warmth and sophistication—think funky paper light fixtures, painted wooden floors, and textures that played with both modern and traditional Japanese styles. For more on our dining experiences in Chicago, see here.
A close second is had to be any/all museum spaces. Total showstoppers. With their clean lines and wide open spaces, a well-designed gallery feels like art is being enhanced by the architecture, not just displayed within it. It’s always nice to see when interior architects understand the assignment of drawing proper focus and elevating what a building houses.
I also got lost in the little things that make spaces pop. Like a metal chain wall in a lobby, or that one unique chair, these small design details made me realize how much I appreciate interiors that aren’t just functional but welcoming, expressive, and unique.
And what’s next?
Chicago left me buzzing with inspiration. From its iconic architecture to its quirky interiors, every inch of the city fuels creativity. If you're wondering how this experience will shape my own work, let’s just say I’m pretty excited to bring some of this inspiration into my next projects. Stay tuned to see how these ideas play out in my designs!
