Architect Explores Chicago's Hidden Architecture & History | Walking Tour | Architectural Digest

Today on AD Architect Lynda Dossey leads us on a walking tour of Chicago, highlighting the captivating details found in its storied architecture. From exploring The Loop and Marina City to detailing the history of The Thompson Center and iconic Willis Tower, discover the history behind Chicago’s most famous buildings and neighborhoods through Lynda Dossey’s expert eye.
Director: Hiatt Woods
Director of Photography: Brian Wingert
Editor(s): Tristen Rogers
Talent: Lynda Dossey
Line Producer: Joseph Buscemi
Producer: Skylar Economy
Associate Producer: Brandon Fuhr
Production Manager: Melissa Heber
Production Coordinator: Fernando Davila
Audio: Dan Seiler
Production Assistant: Alexander James Holtel
Post Production Supervisor: Alexa Deutsch
Post Production Coordinator: Ian Bryant
Supervising Editor: Doug Larsen
Assistant Editor: Justin Symonds
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[@kateroca8297]

Thank you for doing one of these in Chicago! We have such a rich architectural history, I'd love to see more in the different neighborhoods since each has such a unique character 😊

[@sheridanparker264]

Yesss my fello chicagoian

[@collectingscars]

Yes! Chicagoan here, I'd love to see more about the neighborhoods!

[@elizabethmiller1804]

I agree!

[@arjielemeaux8523]

@@funkmachine9094 ok insecure weirdo lol

[@utahdan231]

@@funkmachine9094you have nothing comparing to Ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, India , China , Peru.

[@nutsbutdum]

These are my favorite Architectural Digest series. You learn so much about a city.

[@dominikjakaj1999]

same 😊

[@RebeccaRaven]

Chicago has amazing architecture! The architecture boat tour is my favorite thing to do when I travel to Chicago.

[@kaskahea1274]

Thank you for the recommendation 👍🏽. Is it ok in Spring or rather in Summer?

[@bridgetf88]

@@kaskahea1274 spring would be fun too but make sure to bundle up as it doesn’t get warm in chicago until like mid may

[@kaskahea1274]

@@bridgetf88 Thank you for sharing. ☺☺

[@carstarsarstenstesenn]

@@kaskahea1274you will definitely enjoy it in the spring even if it's chilly. it can be fun because the boat is less crowded when the weather isn't as nice

[@kaskahea1274]

@@carstarsarstenstesenn SUPER! Never been to the Windy City.

[@ShenitaMoore]

I was just in Chicago for the first time over the Halloween Weekend and I did the Architecture Boat Tour. The buildings there are absolutely amazing! ❤

[@RoseEyed]

You should do the haunted history tours if you're ever here during the fall again. Definitely fun to learn about!

[@ShenitaMoore]

@@RoseEyed Will do! Thanks for the tip!

[@daniellinehan63]

The night boat tour is stunning

[@huntrrams]

We need a whole series of this! Exploring different neighborhoods in chicago

[@littleluna813]

They really should! but until they do, I recommend this playlist/channel: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y4eol4yMiJaCp9E and this channel (created by an architect): www.youtube.com/@stewarthicks/featured

[@GeographRick]

You might find this interesting. He visits all the Chicago neighborhoods while showing the L and its history. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aqi7c2ueqdFmkNE

[@yashshah5971]

I lived in Chicago for 4+ years before having to leave due to visa issues. I miss the city so much - it's what I consider home :( This made me super nostalgic.

[@chazzbranigaan9354]

smell ya!

[@justdrive5327]

Come back home! This city is a sanctuary city. If you run into visa problems again, lawyer up!

[@yashshah5971]

@@justdrive5327 i had shared this video with some of my friends from Europe I met there and are architects and we literally said "One day we'll be back" haha I didn't get the H1B this year but I'll find my way back.

[@motomami666]

me too! lived in chicago for 3 years and had to leave for the same reason :( i miss the architecture, the lake and my friends so much! 💙

[@renatab6938]

Chicago is such an architects wet dream. Such an amazing range of different styles from old to modern

[@LUIS-ox1bv]

Old in worldly terms is relative since Chicago was not incorporated as a city proper until the 1830s. Which makes it a young city compared to other world cities, and hence a mostly " modern," city.

[@prettypuffprincess]

Yes it is!!!

[@guyron8833]

My job has sent me to Chicago last summer, and I just fell it love with it! Greetings from Israel

[@ssdelko]

My friend’s older sister used to take us ice skating at Marina. The Chicago River at night was scary looking. Glad it is cleaner now!

[@Georgeanne17]

Growing up in Chicago, as a teenager you spend days in beautiful buildings, studying every window, beam, curve without any knowledge but wondrous rupture. At least I did! Very fortunate to have such beautiful buildings in the city that inspire the WORLD.

[@highnoon9333]

The Carbide & Carbon Building is just so gorgeous. I know you didn't discuss it but it was shown a little when discussing the Inland Steel building

[@collinsje5]

The contrasting black and gold make it a standout.

[@bodegatiger404]

probably the best architectural and urban planned city on the western hemisphere. I went to the architectural centre last summer and it is amazing how much this city cares about preserving, maintaining, as well as educating about it's rich history and architecture.

[@utahdan231]

City doesn’t care at all. CHICAGO PRESERVATION, non-profit organization does the job with endangered buildings. City during the reign of Richard J Daley lost precious palaces to developers on Lake Shore Dr.

[@LUIS-ox1bv]

Lived there for 30 years and see nothing but the opposite. The truth of the matter is the city squandered much of its architectural heritage by destroying it. Anyone well versed in the architectural history of Chicago is painfully aware of this. It's one of the reasons that compelled me to move. Witnessed the careless, and downright stupid destruction of irreplaceable structures to be replaced with mockeries and eyesores. The city's landmark commission and efforts to save landmark buildings lacks teeth, which is why buildings of noteworthy, historical and cultural importance, are routinely knocked down. What's being built in Chicago these days can be found in New York, Toronto, Melbourne or Mumbai. Most of the output cranked out these days,with few exceptions, is mediocre at best. One of the practical reasons why these buildings give off the impression they do is the fact that Chicago is flat, arranged on a strict gridiron pattern and is situated on a river by a major lake. In other cities, one has to traverse hills and inclines with streets that are winding or on inclines, or have streets containing vertical ranges of high rises, like Manhattan, which impairs viewing from the point of vista. Chicago allows easy viewing of singular buildings, plus open vistas which provides one with a panoramic view of the city.

[@JohnGalanek]

@@LUIS-ox1bv A city is more than the sum of its parts. Besides, you defeated your own point. Chicago’s beautiful natural setting, and storied city planning, lend to the aesthetic of its edifices. Thus creating a beauty greater than the architecture alone could. Finally, as presented in this clip, Chicago’s more recent additions are anything but mediocre.

[@NovaVortex193]

@LUIS-ox1bv

[@timothywebber7404]

My grandfather was an architect in Chicago during the early 1900's.

[@SarahRenz59]

Many years ago, I was in a long-distance relationship with a guy. He came to visit, and we spent a day in Chicago. He was impressed with my knowledge of the architecture. Thanks to Geoffrey Baer's countless videos on the subject shown on Chicago's PBS station, many of us Chicagoland denizens are well-versed in Chicago architecture and justifiably proud of it. I'm glad that AD and KZbin are showing the rest of the world what an attractive city Chicago is.

[@collinsje5]

Real humans can afford Chicago housing. We have ritzy areas, but some are just neighborhoods where people who get their hands dirty live.

[@tomshea8382]

Another cool thing about the 150 North Riverside building is the cantilevers form a "Y" shape, which is the city's old symbol, paying tribute to the three branches of the river that meet at Wolf Point, where the first commercial buildings in Chicago were erected, and where 150 North Riv is located.

[@TedHolmwood]

The tuning fork is such a great nickname for that building. It has a tuned mass damper, which is essentially a wave pool, high up that counteracts the sway of the building due to wind.

[@dcwcu]

Fantastic video and I'm glad that AD finally did a Chicago video. However, I'd really love to see a video where they venture more into the neighborhoods like they did in their SF video. An architectural tour of Chicago of any kind really should not miss the Robie House, IIT's campus, or at least talking about the Chicago Bungalow.

[@littleluna813]

They really should! but until they do, I recommend this playlist/channel: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y4eol4yMiJaCp9E and this channel (created by an architect): www.youtube.com/@stewarthicks/featured

[@dcwcu]

@@littleluna813 Thanks so much for the suggestions! I already know both of those channels! They're excellent! Definitely recommend for anyone reading this!

[@tortellinifettuccine]

@@dcwcu sorry could you restate the channels? the previous comment that said them was deleted.

[@camicibianchi]

Chicago is an amazing city, you can find beauty, art and architecture in every corner 💖

[@wallewallewalle]

Chicago born here! This beautiful city is the reason I love architecture. No other city compares !

[@showcaseSampa]

Loved the narrator. Please expand the Chicago Tour of buildings, and while at it, make it a series. The Architect in charge of the showcase was very insightful, and presented with an excellent flow, bringing to surface, many tidbits an outsider, or even a lay person would not know. And she was elegant to boot.

[@patriciaherlevi6217]

When I took a train journey across the country last spring I was hoping to go on this tour when I had a 6 hour layover in Chicago. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to take the tour so it will have to wait until another visit. I'm enjoying this video.

[@RoseEyed]

Yes Chicago!!!! Love this series. Born and raised here and I’ve been waiting to see our time to shine! Edit: I've lived here my whole life and never heard the stories of these buildings, even on the tours I've done. Just goes to show how much there is to all the different places here. Including ones I've passed by and that friends live in. Can't wait for the next one!

[@starkparker16]

Lynda was a great pick. She knows her stuff and has experience with some of the firms featured in this great video.

[@musicisart2]

perfect

[@shinybaldy]

This is an architect’s love letter to the city of Chicago.

[@barbarawillis4275]

The Monadnock building exterior stands the test of time and weather.

[@iwouldliketoorderanumber1b79]

Winters can be brutal, it’s seen a lot.

[@sarahclark3833]

YESSS more Chicago content!!!

[@littleluna813]

The youtube architecture loving community is starved for Chicago content! I recommend this playlist/channel: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y4eol4yMiJaCp9E and this channel (created by an architect): www.youtube.com/@stewarthicks/featured

[@psilence015]

I LOVE YOU CHICAGO!!! Love from NY

[@jilltibbetts3]

The cantilever design of that building is just incredible!

[@MrPekmano]

Thank you for doing this in Chicago! As an architect I traveled long and far and ended up practicing architecture here, and I'm happy to call it my second home.

[@susanadams-wauro6716]

Those buildings in Marina City are off the charts!! Great tour of the city!

[@christianfarias9285]

I miss Chicago. I think it’s more beautiful than New York City, maybe not as fun, but definitely more beautiful

[@samwest9169]

There are so many cool buildings in Chicago they could do several of these and not run out

[@littleluna813]

They really should! but until they do, I recommend this playlist/channel: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y4eol4yMiJaCp9E and this channel (created by an architect): www.youtube.com/@stewarthicks/featured

[@harbormasterofficial]

More historical building in this series..🥰very elegant building are there what a structural building design.

[@ilm9682]

Chicago sreets cleaner than Manhattan. Being fed with lines about how Chicago is a dangerous place - it painted a certain image in my mind that it must be grungy and dirty, but it's literally the cleanest, beautiful city ever (if you don't stray too deep). Anyway, alleys are important.

[@collinsje5]

Certain political clowns have singled out Chicago as a ultra-violent dump. As a 40 year resident, I am telling you it is just not true. Most crime happens in areas of the city that tourists are just not going to visit.

[@kathleenweinberg6442]

Chicago has some big beautiful buildings

[@briansieve]

Chicago is one of the great cities of the world. Thanks for the video

[@deniseoates7147]

Wow! I knew about the Sears' tower but that about it. There is some very interesting art posing as buildings in the downtown landscape. Thanks for sharing and blessing to you and all in the days to come.

[@SoCalFreelance]

It will always be the Sears Tower to me.🥰

[@kingj282]

More Chicago! I could watch these all day!

[@kathyastrom1315]

Aqua is my favorite building downtown. I know a couple of people who live in Marina City-for such an iconic building with amazing views and centrally located if you are working in the Loop, it is remarkably affordable, especially when compared to rents in cities like New York or San Francisco.

[@kadradelarente4351]

finally my hood. but this deserves a part 2. you missing the good old ones: Tribune, Wrigley, Carbide & Carbon and more.

[@FridayAdventureClub]

Loved the SF and of course the NYC videos too! Do Seattle next!

[@chrisseidl8294]

Got to see the progress of Aqua when it was built as my office faced that direction- it was amazing to see that day by day progress

[@saimanmiah2717]

Awesome! I have just visited Chicago and have seen all of these buildings and it truly is a wonderful city. This is only a handful of the many many amazing buildings by Starchitects.

[@brettj2898]

Super interesting, thanks! Visited Chicago in February 2018 for the first time and we loved it - definitely on my revisit list! Such an interesting city

[@CB-vg1wq]

Wow! This was a fabulous tour of my hometown city. Thank You SO much.

[@pmdl23]

The interior architecture in many of Chicago's buildings is also well-worth seeing. Honorable mention as well to its residential homes.

[@philwald6193]

I've always said that if you are a world class architect or aspire to be one this is the city that you want to leave your mark on. I've walked around this city for years and have always been amazed by this cities architecture

[@cia1998]

I visited Chicago for the first time in 2021 winter and welcomed the 2022 New Year with the city. I have to say, it's everything I wanted in a city as an urbanite who loves skyscrapers. Such a beautiful downtown with restaurants and bakeries (especially from Chinatown) that are also open late. It's always nice seeing and learning more info about the place where I left my heart at

[@kjmav10135]

And those are just a few of the buildings in the Loop area! Chicago is loaded with architectural gems. I am lucky enough to work in Big Red, with glorious views in every direction. So much beauty in the City of Big Shoulders.

[@LMays-cu2hp]

Thank you for sharing our city here in Chicago. We do have some of the most beautiful buildings that goes us our leading position in architecture design.🙂

[@LMays-cu2hp]

@@jimmyrees42 Thank you for sharing and to have continued comments.

[@traviswilds7018]

Awesome tour! Would love to see more older stuff--including maybe some of Adler & Sullivan's ghosts👻

[@rustyshackleford5537]

Wow. Amazing architecture in Chicago. And she is very charming and well spoken, a relief to listen to.

[@robb2biago]

Wow! I learned more about Chicago buildings I’ve past for decades with your video. Thank you! I’m going to have to revisit again soon.

[@QuickieHistie]

Love seeing a piece on the city which constantly takes my breath away. Chicago is truly one of the most beautiful structural masterpieces

[@florante4991]

If Lynda Dossey is giving a lecture I could listen to her for hours. Her topic and and how she delivers them, simply amazing.

[@Shadski14]

Just want to echo all the other comments here, these are absolutely fantastic. Please keep doing them!

[@pavana2810]

I love these architectural tours. Lynda was so great at educating. Thank you. Very enjoyable 😊

[@TheSportsandFilmFellowship]

Best downtown I’ve ever been to!! And I’ve traveled all over ❤️💪🏽

[@gemstonesparkle7915]

NY and Chicago are incomparable in terms of high rise. There's something that new high rise cities missed that they have, something bold and that looks just right.

[@yuni360]

Amazing clip! Chicago is truly a museum of architectural masterpiece

[@corinnapetry65]

Linda did a wonderful job here. I live and work in Chicago and love these structures (of course).

[@eddieg6436]

I remember being 13 when the incredible State of Illinois building was finished in 1984, an incredible building. Wow! Love that new Aqua tower! Wasn’t it designed by a woman? Love Chicago!

[@Editorknowsbest]

The Aqua Tower was designed by a woman. I was rather disappointed Lynda didn't mention that.

[@kentpaynter1350]

Thank you so much! Now I want to visit Chicago and see these up close.

[@carlpetitt2241]

Wonderful video! Lynda's style of relaxed expertise really made this enjoyable.

[@zZiL341yRj736]

This is the site of the Transformers invasion many years ago, glad to see they rebuilt.

[@Harry_16710]

Great tour - thank you!

[@Benjorunner]

Chicago is a beautiful city which I always love to visit when in the states. Thank you for the lovely tour!

[@faizasanam1539]

Amazing city !!!!!

[@dancedj2k2]

This makes me love my city even more. I wish this was a longer video. They didn't tour any of my favorite "hidden" architecture sites.

[@benjaminniemczyk]

This video is too short. I cannot believe I am saying that, since the vast majority of informational videos are too long. Lynda Dossey is obviously an expert but also has that undefinable effervescence that makes learning from her fun. Please call upon her again and double, triple the length so we can learn even more!

[@garymason7]

I really like these architectural walking tours. Hope you do more 👏👏

[@drewbarrett9631]

These are always such a treat. So much fun and so calming hearing about the history of amazing buildings. Please, more of these, and similar topics, and less celebrity-worshiping house tours. There are numerous other places for people to get their fixes on the Kardashians, if they're into that type of garbage.

[@kilinkis]

Enjoyed this video a lot! Chicago definetly one of the GOAT cities ever regarding architecture and Lynda did a great job describing the buildings features using accurate vocabulary.

[@johnsonaustinj]

More Chicago please! Great video, from host to editing. I liked the mix of old and new footage. Well done.

[@Annavp21]

More of this, please!

[@Lobstrique]

Lynda is amazing, and so is this beautiful city :) thank you for these videos!

[@fransirahome]

Thanks for sharing these beautiful buildings.

[@Sourpusscandy]

That was a great little tour!

[@artisticbuilding6852]

Great video. I need to visit Chicago. It's one of the most, almost THE most interesting city for new architectural style development from the late 19th century onwards. It will forever be the original king of skyscrapers to skyscraper lovers

[@RealNameNeverUsed]

4:20 love that sound of sports car in the background. Adding modern automobiles to the mix when talking about an old city.

[@MrPhotodoc]

More please!

[@TMD3453]

Nicely done! I appreciate an architect’s insights as to how building techniques and engineering affect form. Yes, more of these, please!! Thanks much

[@xvsj5833]

Great tour and deeply interesting !!!

[@saranbhatia8809]

Great description great compilation!!

[@georgeyounts9391]

Thank you. This is wonderful.

[@smokeydoke100]

That's one of the things that I love about this city, It's a living museum of architecture. The food's pretty dang good too.

[@tinypinata505]

I live for these videos! 🙌

[@Symmetre]

Great tour!

[@lacharpie]

What a beautiful video. Thank youuuu

[@j3suis1337]

This was amazing.

[@jncova]

I've always loved Chicago's architecture! More videos please!

[@jaysato]

my college was in the south loop area. and i always loved the walked towards to north loop area. i just love the business of the downtown area.

[@andrewsartduchy7721]

Awesome video!

[@galahad9853]

I was literally just thinking about this. Please do more of these for more cities and more areas in big cities

[@AP-wq9dv]

Wonderful series on Chicago

[@JesseDishner]

Well done, thanks for the tour of my former home!

[@mikew1884]

Love Chicago’s architecture!

[@posthocprior]

This is fantastic.

[@BrandonDoyleMN]

Wow, very interesting!!