Morning Thoughts on Burnham.

When one thinks of Chicago, the name Daniel Burnham should undoubtedly come to mind. Burnham is a visionary architect known for iconic landmarks such as the Flatiron Building in New York and the magnificent Union Station in downtown Chicago, as well as Jackson Park, the last remaining relic of the World Columbian Exposition of 1893, which is heavily detailed in Erik Larson's masterpiece 'Devil in the White City.'

Growing up in Chicago, I found myself immersed in a landscape of architecture at every turn. I acquired a CTA card by the time I hit my early teens, hopping on trains to explore the expansive wonders of the Windy City, from towering skyscrapers to charming row houses and nostalgic diners.

My journey exploring the city led me to my personal favorite building in Chicago, the Chicago Symphony Center, an architectural gem completed by Daniel Burnham in 1904. Stepping into this timeless masterpiece is like traveling back in time.

As a child, I begrudgingly attended symphony performances with my parents, donning a suit and secretly munching on M&Ms to make it through the seemingly endless instrumental compositions. Today, however, I eagerly embrace every opportunity to attend a performance or a gala at the Chicago Symphony, and instead of buying tickets to see a movie or a band play at a local bar, I try to convince friends to join me in experiencing Beethoven's Concerto No. 5.

The enchanting strains of classical music, and an opulent ballroom that oozes old Chicago charm, might sound a bit over-the-top, but I fully embrace the gaudy. In my eyes, the Symphony’s architecture is Burnham's spirit materialized, representing the epitome of the city.

Grainger Ballroom at the Chicago Symphony.

So here's my invitation to all you readers: dive into these cherished spaces within the city. Whether you're strolling through historic Jackson Park or marveling at the myriad buildings designed by Burnham in the Loop, there's a wealth of history and beauty waiting to be discovered.

The 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Jackson Park.

Today, I retraced an old college running route that led me to Graceland Cemetery, a personal favorite for its serene ambiance on sunny mornings. It's here that Daniel Burnham rests peacefully, beneath a bridge overlooking a tranquil pond surrounded by willows. I present you with a fitting accompaniment— 'Pulaski at Night' by Andrew Bird.

Strolling through this sacred part of the city, one encounters not just gravestones but a gallery of stories etched in stone, a testament to the diverse lives that have contributed to the rich history of Chicago. The intentional placement of each memorial, coupled with the diverse architectural styles, transforms the cemetery into an immersive journey through time. Graceland Cemetery, a place of enduring beauty, serves as a visual chronicle, allowing visitors to connect with the past in a serene and contemplative environment.

It's been an absolute pleasure writing down these words for you all today. So what are you waiting for? Go out there and explore the wonders that Chicago's architecture has to offer.

Best regards,

Design Americano

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