Chicago Architecture

1. Art Institute of Chicago

Chicago, IL

Welcome to the Art Institute of Chicago. It was constructed for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition by architects John Root and Daniel Burnham. The building features a neoclassical-Beaux-Arts design and is decorated with various arches, basrelief panels, and columns. The north side of the building is known as the "Modern Wing" and was designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano. It's more minimalistic design is meant to act in stark contrast to the rest of the building. At the front of the building, you will see the famed Bronze lions. Though they appear identical at first, upon further observation it is clear that the lion on the south end stands in an attitude of defiance, while the one at the north end appears to be on the prowl!