STEEL CONSTRUCTION AND THE CHICAGO SCHOOL

In the latter half of the 19th century, a perfect storm of technological, cultural, and economic factors converged to give rise to the Chicago School of Architecture. The maturation of the Bessemer steel-making process enabled the mass production of high-quality steel, while the Crystal Palace Exhibition in London introduced innovative design concepts to the world. Meanwhile, the Great Chicago Fire created an urgent need for rapid, large-scale reconstruction, sparking a surge in building activity. Against this backdrop, the Chicago School of Architecture emerged, characterized by its innovative use of steel structures in high-rise buildings. This article provides a concise overview of the historical context and modern evolution of the Chicago School, and explores future trends that are likely to influence the development of high-rise architecture.