The Rookery: Under the glass skylight
Do not let its quirky name nor heavy masonry exterior walls deceive you. Upon entering the lobby, you will find a stark contrast in the interior: a well-lit atrium interwoven with cast iron framing, glass skylight, and moorish-inspired marble patterns. Even on an overcast day, the world just brightens up with the amount of natural light coming through.
First completed in in 1888 by architects Daniel Burnham and John Wellborn Root, The Rookery drew its name from the crows and pigeons flocking to its exterior as well as the crooked politicians congregating inside. At its inception, the building was already an architectural marvel for its innovative construction method and exquisite designs. Legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright was later commissioned to renovate the its signature Light Court, transforming the building into a gleaming center of commerce. To this day, The Rookery continues to shine as an office building in the Chicago Loop.
Tips
- The Light Court lobby at the first floor is open to the public during business hours. Know before you go: https://www.therookerybuilding.com/contact
- While entrance to the lobby is free, a tour is highly recommended, where you can not only learn about its history but also have access to the beautifully intricate staircase: https://flwright.org/tour/rookery
