Learn about the influential figures behind Chicago’s world-class architecture and see their valuable contributions throughout the city.

Ludwig Mies van der Rohe - This revolutionary architect of Germany’s Bauhaus school left an indelible imprint on both Chicago and the face of urban architecture around the world. His twin apartment towers at 860-880 Lake Shore Drive are featured in almost every book on modern architecture. He also designed many buildings at the Illinois Institute of Technology, including Crown Hall — a stunning marriage of steel and glass.

Frank Lloyd Wright - The Prarie Style of architecture emerged in Chicago during the late 19th and early 20th century. It recalled the vast American landscape by focusing on horizontal expanses and by blurring the lines between exterior and interior spaces. Wright constructed more than 100 buildings throughout Chicago and nearby Oak Park, including the landmark Robie House.

Daniel Burnham - In 1909, the renowned city planner and designer created the City of Chicago master plan that became a blueprint for other American cities. He also designed many groundbreaking buildings throughout the city, including the Rookery Building (with an atrium lobby by Frank Lloyd Wright) and the Reliance Building, recently re-opened as the Hotel Burnham in his honour.

Louis Sullivan - A master and contemporary of Burnham, Sullivan’s distinct ornamental style influenced such giants as Frank Lloyd Wright, who briefly worked for him. Sullivan’s work can be seen at the Jewelers’ Building, the Auditorium Building and the Carson Pirie Scott Building.

Helmut Jahn - This Chicago resident is known for his daring and controversial designs, including the James R. Thompson Center, the United Airlines Terminal at O’Hare International Airport and the innovative State Street Village at the Illinois Institute of Technology.

Frank Gehry - The beginning of the new millennium has brought noteworthy architecture by Frank Gehry to Chicago, including the centrepiece of Millennium Park, the steel Jay Pritzker Pavilion and the BP Bridge.

Rem Koolhaas - Following in the steps of architectural ingenuity first laid by Mies van der Rohe, the campus of the Illinois Institute of Technology has been enhanced by the groundbreaking new McCormick Tribune Campus Center.