Friday, September 9, 2011

Chicago Cultural Center




Over the summer I was able to photograph the Chicago Cultural Center, a truly remarkable building.  Here’s a bit a history on the one of Chicago’s architectural marvels.

The Chicago Cultural Center is a landmark building located at 78 E Washington Street at Michigan Avenue in the Loop.  Designed by architect C.A. Collidge and Robert C. Spencer, construction began over 115 years ago in 1893 and was completed in 1897 for the cost of 2 million dollars.  The building was originally home to the Chicago Public Library and Grand Army of Republic Museum.  The massive building has a neoclassical style with Italian Renaissance elements in its symmetry and proportion cladded with Indiana limestone.  The marble on the inside features mosaics and ornate bronze balusters.  Up the stairs a stained glass Tiffany dome, 38 feet in diameter, highlights the center.

3 comments:

  1. You are lucky to get these fantastic photos. I was only in here once and was amazed at the beauty of the place. I'll have to make a point of visiting again the next time I'm there.

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  2. Fantastic views of the Cultural Centre Andrew, love the reflections in the second shot.

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  3. Agreed Sharon - an amazing building indeed. Thanks Aussie, the cultural center reflects the architecture across the street nicely.

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