UofT SCS Course: Chicago - The Skyscraper & Modern Architecture

At the turn of the 20th Century, the city of Chicago became a laboratory for some of the most innovative architecture in the world. Beginning with the Great Fire from which Chicago’s multi-story structures emerged in the late 1800s, this series will explore how an industrial Midwestern city became a modern metropolis of art. As we survey the history of its skyscrapers and tour architectural landmarks like the Rookery building, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House and the masterpieces of Mies van der Rohe, we’ll assess the bold designs and colorful personalities that have left their mark on the city’s skyline—and changed the landscape of 20th century architecture.

This is an in-class course that is scheduled to take place from March 25 2025 to April 29 2025.

Classes will take place on Tuesday’s from 10:30AM to 12:30PM.

Class Schedule

• 03/25/2025 – A Phoenix from the Ashes: The Great Fire of 1871
• 04/01/2025 – The Chicago School of Architecture: Major Architects & Buildings
• 04/08/2025 – The “White City”: The Chicago’s World Fair of 1893
• 04/15/2025 – Frank Lloyd Wright in Chicago
• 04/22/2025 – Art Deco in Chicago
• 04/29/2025 – Mies and More – International Style & Public Artworks