Famous Chicago Architecture in the Gold Coast

March 23, 2021 | By Lindsay Smith
Reading Time: 2 Minutes

The historic Gold Coast features stunning architecture and design that has been well-preserved throughout the years. If you’re into learning about some of the most famous Chicago architecture dating back to the 19th century, read on.

Famous Architecture in Chicago’s Gold Coast

As you walk along the Gold Coast streets you’ll find plenty of unique architectural elements, including Romanesque, Queen Anne, Modern, Renaissance, and Georgian Revival styles.

Characterized by its round arches, the Romanesque style can be found throughout many buildings in the Gold Coast. Stemming from the mid-11th century, this medieval European style is showcased along several Astor Street townhouses dating back to 1889. Admire the stunning stone walls, arched windows, and massive walls of these Romanesque Gold Coast buildings.

Another style you will see as you peruse mansions in the Gold Coast is Queen Anne. This style features an asymmetrical facade, varying wall textures, columns, covered balconies, and bay windows. A great example of this style in the Gold Coast is the current home to Chicago’s Archbishop, which was built in 1885.

Showcased in many Gold Coast homes is the modern style. This type of architecture includes a clean aesthetic, heavy use of horizontal and vertical lines, and simple shapes and forms throughout. The Charnley-Persky House in the Gold Coast, built by Frank Lloyd Wright and Louis Sullivan in 1892, is just one of the beautifully constructed modern homes in the area.

Renaissance architecture is also seen in many historical buildings in the Gold Coast. This style can be found through its symmetrical design, columns, arches, and domes. The Wrigley mansion, designed by Richard Schmidt in 1896, showcases the brilliant architecture of the Italian Renaissance.

Developed from colonial architecture, Georgian Revival is found throughout various Gold Coast mansions as well. This style features a rectangular facade with shutters, high ceilings, crown molding, and a grand entrance. The Patterson McCormick mansion, designed by Stanford White in 1892, is a prime example of the Georgian style in the Gold Coast.

These architectural styles are expressed across various buildings in Gold Coast and all throughout Chicago. Taking a stroll along the city streets will let you uncover some of the most beautiful historical landmarks in the area.

If you’re interested in living near some of the most famous architecture in Chicago, look no further than the Gold Coast. The Luxury Living team can help you find the right apartment and help answer any questions you may have about your apartment search.

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