From bungalows to greystones: New book reveals real architecture of Chicago
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Two-flat apartment buildings in Logan Square. Photo: Taylor Glascock/Bloomberg via Getty Images
There is so much fanfare for the city's downtown architecture, but a new book argues the real heart and soul of Chicago design is in its homes.
The big picture: The book "Chicago Homes: A Portrait of the City's Everyday Architecture" is a comprehensive look at the unique styles and designs in neighborhood homes.
What they're saying: "I've been writing about and researching Chicago homes for almost 20 years now, and there are books about skyscrapers or 'starchitects,' but nothing comprehensive about our incredible housing stock," co-author Carla Bruni tells Axios.
- "People in Chicago love the architecture, and that includes things like a brick two-flat or a workers' cottage."
- Bruni wrote the book with Phil Thompson.
By the buildings: The book features several styles, including bungalows, two-flats, Tudor revivals and greystones. It also maps the history of homes from the 1800s.
Yes, but: It's not just a book about architecture. It's an exploration into how social, political, racial and economic factors shaped housing.
- The book also identifies some of the city's unique quirks, like why lots are so narrow and why courtyard buildings became so prevalent.
- "Basically, scientists realized that 'amenities' like light and air were required to keep a population healthy, so a new building form arose," Bruni says.
The bottom line: "Any Chicagoan will tell you that the best thing about this city is its neighborhoods, both for the buildings and the people," Bruni adds.
- "So, this book is a testament to both."