Chicago Architecture: 1885 to Today (Universe Architecture Series)

As befits the author, this is a highly intelligent way to approach a topic as vast as the architecture of the city of Chicago. Even the terrific two-volume set from the two massive Art Institute of Chicago shows are insufficient to cover all of the ground - so no sense in trying that again. Another approach is that taken by the AIA Guide to Chicago (full disclosure: I wrote one of the feature building essays), which attempts to cover the ground on a highlights-by-subregion approach. That fact-stuffed "Guide Vert" for Chicago architecture is especially useful if you have the time to walk around.But what of the visitor to our city who understands right away that this is a special place in the history of world architecture, but doesn't have time to take it all in? That's where Mr. Keegan's book is spot-on. By focusing on a broad range of buildings, typologically, chronologically and geographically, from great and some not-quite-great architects, Keegan's book delivers a solid feel for the landscape, some good and insightful discussions, and a path forward for whatever additional investigations you might want.If your Aunt Edna is coming to Chicago from Nebraska, she's heard about our architecture on Oprah, on PBS or wherever, and she's interested, buy this one for her first. When she gets here, she may want to add the AIA Guide but by then she'll have a better feel for what she might want to see here.If your nephew, Demetrius, is thinking about studying architecture, has heard Chicago has some great buildings, and wants to know what all the fuss is about, buy this one for him first, too. The combination of illustrations and text will get him enough into specifics that he'll understand why we have an architourism industry here - plus he'll understand why Chicago is the best city in the world to be a PRACTICING architect in. A book like this exists because people here get it. Keegan's book isn't a rah-rah - it shows clearly why Chicagoans have good reason to be proud of our architecture, and our architects.If your Cousin Alberto is visiting from Italy, he's a cultured guy who understands architecture generally and wants to see some of the greats while he's here, buy it for him, too. This book is great because of what it has PLUS it offers a structure that you can use to burrow deeper into whatever interests you the most.

I got exactly what I wanted. Couldn't be happier.

My son loves this book. He is studying architectural design!

This is a nice introduction to view and learn about Chicago's famous architectural reputation as a leader in innovative design in skyscrapers. It is written in simple terms and is not for the advanced architectural lover who wants more detail.

Fun, great little book for anyone in love with Chicago and its architecture. I get a little thrill when I see a building referenced in the book.

The book is what it says on the inside cover,namely, "features an indepth analysis of 42 bulidings erected within the last 2 centuries that are considered to be the seminal works of Chicago Architecture". The indepth analysis is really the photographs as the amount of written word is kept to a minimum. It would be of interest to people visiting Chicago and with an interest in Architecture. It would also serve as an initial reference book for Architectural Students on Chicago Bulidings. The quality of the pictures is good and the mix of colour with black and white adds to the book.