https://frametheworks.com/field-notes-and-photographs-of-lake-street-bridge-in-chicago-for-engineers-cdot-personnel-and-bridge-crews/https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/lake-street-bridge-west-leaf-descends-10-19-19-11-22.jpgLake Street Bridge West Leaf Descends 10 19 19 11 2211:22 AMhttps://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/cdot-bridge-crews-positioned-during-the-lowering-of-the-west-leaf-10-19-19.-l1190698.jpgCDOT Bridge Crews Positioned During the Lowering of the West Leaf 10 19 19. L119069811:23 AM as the leaf is down and is being locked.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/cdot-bidge-crews-watch-the-lowering-of-the-west-leaf.-view-west-through-the-superstructure.-10-19-19.-l1190696.jpgCDOT Bidge Crews Watch the Lowering of the West Leaf. View West through the Superstructure. 10 19 19. L119069611:22 as the west leaf descends.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/cdot-bridge-crew-member-watching-the-position-of-the-west-leaf.-10-19-19.-l1190676.jpgCDOT Bridge Crew Member Watching the Position of the West Leaf. 10 19 19. L1190676https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/cdot-bridge-crew-member-and-an-angle-on-the-superstructuer-and-raised-west-leaf.-10-19-19.-l1190678.jpgCDOT Bridge Crew Member and an Angle on the Superstructuer and Raised West Leaf. 10 19 19. L1190678https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/crowd-watches-the-west-leaf-of-lake-street-10-19-19-11-20-.jpgCrowd Watches the West Leaf of Lake Street 10 19 19 11 20https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/sailboat-and-lake-street-bridge-west-leaf-10-19-19-11-20.jpgSailboat and Lake Street Bridge West Leaf 10 19 19 11 20https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/bridge-lift-sequence-of-19-october-2019.-environment-photo.-l1190628-e1774646722429.jpgBridge Lift Sequence of 19 October 2019. Environment Photo. L1190628https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/lake-street-bridge-train-deck-lateral-bracing-and-beams.-05-04-19.-4-47-pm.jpgLake Street Bridge, Train Deck Lateral Bracing and Beams. 05 04 19. 4 47 PMhttps://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/bracing-elements-at-lake-street-and-wacker-drive.jpgBracing Elements at Lake Street and Wacker Drive2026-04-24T05:19:57+00:00weekly0.6https://frametheworks.com/ens-signs-could-save-a-life-what-is-the-importance-of-these-signs-at-railroad-crossings/https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ens-sign-x-ing-326-855c-lagrange-il-l1020705.jpgENS Sign X-ING #326 855C LaGrange, IL L1020705This ENS sign is at the crossing at Shawmut Ave. in LaGrange, Illinois. The unique identification code is 326 855C. Primary operating railroad: Indiana Harbor Belt. 6 July 2023.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/metra-and-up-freight-crossing-at-lombard-il.jpgMETRA and UP Freight Crossing at Lombard ILThese are the two trains that came through following the activation of those signals.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/activated-grade-crossing-signals.-lombard-il.jpgActivated Grade Crossing Signals. Lombard, ILFour sets of grade crossing signals are activated as a train approaches this grade crossing. S. Elizabeth Street. Lombard, Illinois. 31 July 2020.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/metx-214-ol-riverside-il-l1350925.jpgMETRA Locomotive #214 with Operation Lifesaver Logo and Slogan.METRA locomotive #214 in Riverside, Illinois displays the Operation Lifesaver logo and slogan, which is Look, Listen, Live. The logo includes a set of signals suggesting the flashing lights at grade crossings, and a crossbuck.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/n-canal-st-grade-xing-approach-3.jpgENS Sign at N. Canal Street in Chicago. AMTRAK Crossing.This ENS Sign is at a grade crossing in Chicago. This area is used by AMTRAK and METRA passenger trains.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/metra-ens-sign.-bartlett-il.jpgMETRA ENS Sign. Bartlett, IL.METRA ENS Sign at the grade crossing at S. Oak Avenue in Bartlett, Illinois.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/coming-and-going-l1020327.jpgComing and Going L1020327A busy time of day finds both commuter and freight trains on the tracks in Riverside, Illinois. An eastbound METRA (track 3) and freight (main 2) pass a westbound METRA commuter train.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/bnsf-7921-06-08-2021-ge-es44c4-at-riverside-l1310624.jpgBNSF #7921 06 08 2021 GE ES44C4 at Riverside L1310624https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/gantries-and-grade-crossing-signals.-springfield-il-feb-2020.jpgGantries and Grade Crossing Signals. Springfield, IL Feb 2020.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/ens-sign-in-lombard-il-l1250765.jpgENS Sign in Lombard IL L12507652026-04-24T05:10:22+00:00weekly0.6https://frametheworks.com/chicagos-first-bridge-lift-of-spring-2026-makes-photography-a-fun-challenge-angles-of-bridge-structures-telephotos-and-the-urban-environment-frame-the-works-public-works-that-is/https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/dusable-bridge-at-michigan-avenue-desceinding.-center-telephoto.-l1140089.jpgDuSable Bridge at Michigan Avenue Desceinding. Center telephoto. L1140089https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/dusable-bridge-at-michigan-ave.-north-leaf-exposed-and-bridge-crews-l1140070.jpgDuSable Bridge at Michigan Ave. North Leaf Exposed and Bridge Crews L1140070https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/dusable-bridge-at-michigan-ave-south-leaf-center-l1140066.jpgDuSable Bridge at Michigan Ave South Leaf Center L1140066https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/dusable-bridge-at-michigan-ave-south-leaf-rising.-clear-span-and-ne-house-l1140063.jpgDuSable Bridge at Michigan Ave South Leaf Rising. Clear Span and NE House L1140063https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/dusable-bridge-at-michigan-ave-south-leaf-rising-l1140058.jpgDuSable Bridge at Michigan Ave South Leaf Rising L1140058https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/dusable-bridge-center-clear-span-telephoto-l1140057.jpgDuSable Bridge Center Clear Span Telephoto L1140057https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/dusable-michigan-ave-bridge-clear-span.-view-looks-north.-l1140050.jpgDusable Michigan Ave Bridge Clear Span. View looks north. L1140050https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/wabash-avenue-bridge-south-leaf-and-stop-lights-from-safe-pedestrian-median-l1140021-2.jpgWabash Avenue Bridge South Leaf and Stop Lights from Safe Pedestrian Median L1140021https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/wabash-avenue-bridge-south-leaf-and-lowered-gates-l1140017-2.jpgWabash Avenue Bridge South Leaf and Lowered Gates L1140017https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/wabash-avenue-bridge-lowering.-center-telephoto-l1140041.jpgWabash Avenue Bridge Lowering. Center Telephoto L11400412026-04-24T05:07:30+00:00weekly0.6https://frametheworks.com/wells-street-bridge-a-rebuilt-bascule-bridge-defines-chicagos-infrastructure-and-civic-symbolism/https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/cantilever-bracing-and-decorative-sidewalk-railing.jpgCantilever Bracing and Decorative Sidewalk Railinghttps://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/substructure-engineering-elements-from-the-riverwalk-looking-north.jpgSubstructure Engineering Elements from the Riverwalk, Looking Northhttps://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/nys-usa-steel-brand.jpgNYS USA Steel Brandhttps://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roofline-of-south-bridge-house.jpgRoofline of South Bridge Househttps://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/batten-plates-and-gusset-plates-at-the-north-leaf-superstructure-1.jpgBatten Plates and Gusset Plates at the North Leaf Superstructurehttps://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/bottom-chord-connections-and-weights-near-a-gear-rack.jpgBottom Chord Connections and Weights Near a Gear Rackhttps://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/bottom-chord-connections-looking-east.jpgBottom Chord Connections Looking Easthttps://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/west-elevation-clear-span.jpgWest Elevation Clear Spanhttps://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/south-leaf-batten-plates-gusset-plates-and-bracing-at-gear-rack-and-portal-with-train-deck-structural-elements-looking-southwest.jpgSouth Leaf Batten Plates, Gusset Plates, and Bracing at Gear Rack and Portal, with Train Deck Structural Elements, Looking Southwesthttps://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/north-leaf-plates-and-bracing-with-train-deck-approach-span-members.jpgNorth Leaf Plates and Bracing, with Train Deck Approach Span Members2026-04-24T04:50:45+00:00weekly0.6https://frametheworks.com/2026/03/31/lake-street-bridge-a-road-rail-and-pedestrian-bridge-in-chicagos-infrastructure-history-a-photographic-collection-part-one-superstructure-bridge-tenders-houses-and-substructures/https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/view-of-the-superstructure-and-train-decks-from-river-point-park.-view-looks-east.-l1130499.jpgView of the Superstructure and Train Decks from River Point Park. View Looks East. L1130499https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/bridge-crew-vehicles.-wiring-and-lighting-at-the-superstructure.-2-october-2025.-l1130486.jpgBridge Crew Vehicles. Wiring and Lighting at the Superstructure. 2 October 2025. L1130486https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/green-line-trian-crosses-the-bridge.-2-october-2025.-l1130493.jpgGreen Line Trian Crosses the Bridge. 2 October 2025. L1130493A westbound Green Line train crosses Lake Street Bridge as preparations for renovations are underway. 2 October 2025.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/girder-and-stanchion-structures-west-of-the-clear-span.jpgGirder and Stanchion Structures West of the Clear Spanhttps://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/clear-span-and-train-deck-approaches-from-near-river-point.jpgClear Span and Train Deck Approaches from near River PointThe Lake Street Bridge is prepared for major renovations in this photo from October 2, 2025.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/west-leaf-substructure-elements-during-a-july-11-2020-lift.jpgWest Leaf Substructure Elements During a July 11, 2020 LiftThe elevated west leaf of Lake Street Bridge displays crucial information about the design of the substructure. Bridge lift of 11 July 2020.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/lake-street-bridge-superstructure-bracing-and-beams-06-18-19.jpgLake Street Bridge Superstructure Bracing and Beams 06 18 19https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/lake-street-bridge-x-bracing-and-train-deck-bracing-06-18-19.jpgLake Street Bridge X-bracing and Train Deck Bracing 06 18 19https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/lake-street-bridge-train-deck-and-x-bracing-on-a-warren-through-truss-06-18-19.jpgLake Street Bridge Train Deck and X-bracing on a Warren through Truss 06 18 19https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/reflectivity-in-the-panes-of-the-northwest-bridge-house.-24-september-2019.-l1180077.jpgReflectivity in the Panes of the Northwest Bridge House. 24 September 2019. L1180077Chicago's bridges are surrounded by glass-faced buildings. The windows of the bridge tender's houses reflect and bend the images of these skyscrapers. Photo date: 24 September 2019.2026-04-24T04:41:03+00:00monthlyhttps://frametheworks.com/2025/04/08/the-dearborn-street-bridge-chicagos-bascule-bridges-integrate-architectural-planes-into-the-citys-dynamic-landscape/https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/dearborn-street-bridge-tenders-house-1.jpgDearborn Street Bridge Tender's House 1Bridge tender's houses reflect the interplay of adjacency and access along the Chicago River. During the seasonal boat runs, controllers in these houses monitor traffic and raise the bridge to allow passage of boats. Situated near major streets and intersections, the house integrates seamlessly into the urban infrastructure network. This ensures that bridge operations do not disrupt the passage of vehicles and pedestrians unnecessarily. The design of the houses keeps with the era in which the bridges were constructed, contributing to Chicago's historic aesthetic while maintaining functional urban connectivity. Dearborn Street Bridge: 1963.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/dearborn-street-bridge-leaves-raised-1.jpgDearborn Street Bridge Leaves Raised 1The two leaves of the Dearborn Street Bridge are raised to allow passage of boats during one of the boat runs that allow passage of watercraft back and forth to Lake Michigan.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/dearborn-street-bridge-and-tenders-house.jpgDearborn Street Bridge and Tender's HouseThe Dearborn Street Bridge, a bascule bridge over the Main Branch of the Chicago River, includes many types of architectural planes. The bridge deck is a horizontal plane, the primary plane which serves vehicles and pedestrian traffic, and the bridge tender's house is a strong vertical plane. Inclined planes are in the truss of the bridge and are essential for structural integrity. There are curved planes in the trusses and the deck. 2026-04-24T04:30:14+00:00monthlyhttps://frametheworks.com/watchtowers-and-control-centers-chicagos-bridge-tenders-houses-are-essential-elements-of-the-citys-public-safety-infrastructure-and-a-link-to-our-architectural-heritage/https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/lsd-south-leaf-and-se-bridge-house-with-crew-present.-11-june-2022.-l1350473.jpgLSD South Leaf and SE Bridge House with Crew Present. 11 June 2022. L1350473https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/lsd-bridges-sw-bridge-tenders-house.-11-june-2022.-l1350465.jpgLSD Bridge's SW Bridge Tender's House. 11 June 2022. L1350465https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/lsd-south-leaf-abutment-substructure-and-sidewalk-deck-raised.-telephoto.-11-june-2022.-l1350464.jpgLSD South Leaf Abutment, Substructure, and Sidewalk Deck Raised. Telephoto. 11 June 2022. L1350464https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/11-june-2022.-lsd-south-leaf-raised.-l1350463.jpg11 June 2022. LSD South Leaf Raised. L1350463https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/lsd-south-leaf-pratt-truss-and-substructure.-11-june-2022.-l1350458.jpgLSD South Leaf Pratt Truss and Substructure. 11 June 2022. L1350458https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/lsd-wide-angle-showing-south-leaf-rising.-11-june-2022.-l1350457.jpgLSD Wide-angle Showing South Leaf Rising. 11 June 2022. L1350457https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/lsd-south-leaf-going-up.-11-june-2022.-l1350456.jpgLSD South Leaf Going Up. 11 June 2022. L1350456https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/lsd-center-of-bridge-at-the-lift.-11-june-2022.-l1350455.jpgLSD Center of Bridge at the Lift. 11 June 2022. L1350455https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/southwest-bridge-tenders-house.-10-19-2019.-l1190357.jpgSouthwest Bridge Tender's House. 10 19 2019. L1190357https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/chicago-river-history-plaque.-southwest-bridge-tenders-house.-dusable-bridge.-chicago.jpgChicago River History Plaque. Southwest Bridge Tender's House. DuSable Bridge. Chicago.Chicago River History plaque. Southwest bridge house. 6 December 2020.2026-03-19T17:15:48+00:00weekly0.6https://frametheworks.com/portfolio/light-shadow-line-and-form-the-timeless-charm-and-versatility-of-black-and-white-photography/https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/south-staircase.-chicago-union-station.jpgSouth Staircase. Chicago Union Station.Colonnades along the south staircase and in the Great Hall of Chicago Union Station are shown here, along with part of the coffered ceiling, light fixtures, and decorated frieze between the columns and ceiling. Medium: color digital photograph reduced to gray shades.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/staircase-and-columns-in-chicago-union-station.jpgStaircase and Columns in Chicago Union StationThis view spanning from the colonnade dividing the entrance corridor from Jackson Boulevard and South Clinton Street at the Great Hall of Chicago Union Station includes the south staircase connecting the Great Hall at South Canal Street. Features include the Corinthian columns, coffered ceiling, and light fixtures along the staircase. Medium: digital in color, reduced to black and white shades.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/civic-opera-house-and-south-branch-scenery-65140023.jpgCivic Opera House and South Branch SceneryShadows, lines, and forms in varying degrees of gray create this image taken looking east from 2 North Riverside Plaza. Dominating the image is the Civic Opera House (1929). To the left of center is 110 North Wacker Drive. Surrounding structure reflect in its glass walls. Subtleties of shading are found in windows and masonry. Medium: Ilford XP2 Super 400 C-41 Black and White Film.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/parking-structure-casino-club-and-hancock-center-65140017.jpgParking Structure, Casino Club and Hancock CenterShapes and forms in tones ranging from the black lines of the Casino Club to the white of the sky and the shades of grays in the surrounding structures create this image taken in downtown Chicago. The spiral in the center is a parking structure connected to the Hancock Center (now 875 North Michigan Avenue). Lines in the foreground draw the view into the background. Medium: Ilford XP2 Super 400 C-41 Black and White Film.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/union-station-xp2-film-study-2.jpgCorridor and Great Hall of Chicago Union StationThe corridor containing entrances to the Metropolitan Lounge, other passenger waiting areas, and the Great Hall of Chicago Union Station are captured in this image. Shades from black to skylit white include subtle variations of gray in the lintel and brackets in the foreground and barrel-vaulted coffered ceiling spanning the corridor. Medium: Ilford XP2 Super 400 C-41 process Black and White film. Date created: 8 October 20222025-07-24T00:30:33+00:00monthlyhttps://frametheworks.com/portfolio/structures-of-the-west-loop-angles-sky-shapes-and-sky-lines-included-chicago-union-station-and-bmo-tower/https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/building-angles-7.-bmo-tower-from-s-clinton-and-w-jackson-looking-se.-l1100304.jpgBuilding Angles 7. BMO Tower From S Clinton and W Jackson Looking SE. L1100304BMO Tower (2022) anchors this view, which looks southeast from the corner of S. Clinton Street and W. Jackson Boulevard. https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/cus-from-transit-center-elevation-l1050494.jpgChicago Union Station and Union Station Transit Center,Chicago Union Station (1925) anchors part of the city's transportation system and history, being a hub for trains since its opening. The transit center serves CTA bus connections. It was completed in 2016.2025-07-24T00:30:33+00:00monthlyhttps://frametheworks.com/portfolio/building-angles-and-sky-lines-street-level-views-of-downtown-chicago-near-chicago-union-station-part-one/https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/building-angles-6.-w.-erie-and-n.-franklin.-river-north.-l1060289.jpgBuilding Angles 6. W. Erie and N. Franklin. River North.Parts of the elevated track structures thhttps://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/building-angles-4.-lake-and-wacker-drive-train-approach.-l1050956.jpgBuilding Angles 4. Lake and Wacker Drive Train Approach. L1050956Looking east along North Wacker Drive at West Lake Street is this collection of structures including: At left and going to the distant center: The Lake Street elevation of 333 Wacker Drive: 1983 225 West Wacker Drive: 1989 210 North Wells Street: 1964 At right: 191 North Wacker Drive: 2002https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/building-angles-28.-lyric-opera-chicago-l1090208.jpgBuilding Angles #28. Lyric Opera Chicago, L1090208The colonnaded porch of the Civic Opera House aligns a south-north axis along North Wacker Drive between West Madison Street (foreground) and West Washington Street.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/building-angles-7.-union-station-and-west-loop.-l1100310-1.jpgBuilding Angles 7. Around Chicago Union Station. L1100310Perspectives align along the canopies and partitions of Union Station and its namesake transit center. Looking east, the structures include: Chicago Union Station: 1925 Fifth Third Center: 1971 Sears Tower: 1974 200 S. Wacker Drive: 1981 250 S. Wacker Drive: 1958https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/building-angles-7.-union-station-transit-cener-and-view-looking-ene.-l1100445.jpgUnion Station Transit CenterThe canopies of Union Station Transit Center lead the perspective up the grade at West Jackson Boulevard from along South Clinton Street. Structures noted include: Union Station Transit Center: 2016 Chicago Union Station: 1925 Fifth Third Center: 1971 Sears Tower: 1974 Gateway Center IV: 1983https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/union-station-and-bmo-tower-lightened-1.jpgUnion Station and BMO Tower Lightened 1Angles of Chicago's iconic Union Station (1925) appear to merge with the glass walls of BMO Tower (2022) and lead the perspective to Congress Center (2000). The view looks south along South Clinton Street. Classic styles of architecture and modern skyscrapers blend in the downtown area.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/building-angles-7.-chicago-mercantile-exchange-and-n-along-wacker-drive.-l1100539.jpgBuilding Angles 7. Chicago Mercantile Exchange and N Along Wacker Drive. L1100539The twin towers of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange building (CME) (1987) take center stage in this image. The view looks north along Wacker Drive and includes, just to the right of the CME, the Civic Opera House (1929).https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/building-angles-7.-adams-and-wacker-looking-ne-from-200-south.-l1100557.jpgBuilding Angles 7. Adams and Wacker Looking NE from 200 South. L1100557From under the canopy at 200 South Wacker Drive is this view of the following structures, all built after 1960. At center and from right to left are 125 S. Wacker Drive, 111 South Wacker Drive, 71 S. Wacker Drive, One North Wacker Drive (UBS Tower), and, framing the view at left, the Chicago Mercantile Exchange building, 100 S. Wacker Drive, and 150 S. Wacker Drive.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/building-angles-7.-adams-and-wacker-lookiing-sw.-l1100566.jpgBuilding Angles 7. Adams and Wacker Lookiing SW. L1100566The Sears Tower, 200 South Wacker Drive, and 150 South Wacker Drive are captured in this view looking southwest from a corner of West Adams Street and South Wacker Drive.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/building-angles-7.-four-corners-at-adams-and-wacker.-l1100551.jpgBuilding Angles 7. Four Corners at Adams and Wacker. L1100551Angling my lens skyward captured this view of skyscrapers near Chicago Union Station. Clockwise from the upper right corner are the Sears Tower (1974), 125 S. Wacker Drive (1974), 111 S. Wacker Drive (2005). 71 S. Wacker Drive (2005), 150 S. Wacker Drive (1971), and 200 S. Wacker Drive (1981).2025-07-24T00:30:32+00:00monthlyhttps://frametheworks.com/portfolio/the-doric-order-of-architecture-structures-featuring-the-classical-doric-order/https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/millennium-park-doric-colonnade-1.jpgMillennium Park Doric Colonnade 1The Millennium Monument at Wrigley Square is in downtown Chicago's Millennium Park. The square opened in 2002, and the monument was restored in 2017. It is a semicircular colonnade in the perfectly proportioned Doric Order and fashioned of Indiana limestone. Style: Limestone Peristyle.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/arches-and-doric-order-tennessee-state-capitol-0830181.jpgThe Old Supreme Court Chamber. Tennessee State Capitol. Nashville, TennesseeThe old Supreme Court Chamber in the Tennessee State Capitol in Nashville includes the architectural elements of a fine barrel-vault ceiling and columns in the Doric Order. These columns display the following elements: a plain abacus (the topmost section of the capital where the column meets the ceiling), a rounded echinus just below that, which is decorated with egg-and-dart moldings, and a fluted shaft which connects directly to the floor without the use of a base, in the style of the Greek Doric version, as differed from the Roman Doric which includes a base. The room is designed to radiate elegance and formality. The building was completed in 1859 and is one of the oldest working state capitols in the country.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/doric-colonnade-millennium-park-l1350129.jpgThe Millennium Monument at Millennium Park. Chicago, IllinoisMillennium Monument at Wrigley Square in Chicago is a fine example of the Doric order. This monument was built to replace a peristyle that stood on the same location at the corner of Michigan Avenue and Randolph Street between 1917 and 1953. The fine semicircular colonnade supports the designation of Michigan Avenue as a landmark district Doric characteristics exemplified here include fluted shafts, the plain abaci, triglyphs, mutules, a soffit with incised squares and decorated with Chicago’s Y-shaped municipal device, and rows of guttae. Different from purely Doric columns that do not have base moldings but stand directly on the building’s platforms, these columns have base moldings and are mounted on pedestals including the elements of caps, dies, and plinths. The columns are almost close enough to touch at their bases and are thus considered paired columns. https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/doric-order-aic-rice-gallery-l1360494.jpgThe Doric Order of the Rice Building. Art Institute of Chicago.This modern interpretation of the Doric Order highlights the Rice Building of the Art Institute of Chicago. Columns with a flat abacus, cushion-shaped echinus, and fluted shaft attached directly to the top of the balustrade. The columns are above sets of pilasters, the plain, vertical rectangular elements supporting the balcony. The central space blends classical elements with modern design reminiscent of an atrium. A skylight composed of a metal grid allows ample illumination, and the light-colored floor compliments the classical aesthetic. The contemporary art pieces along the walls add a modern twist to the neoclassical setting. The pilasters supporting the upper portions of the Rice Building and exhibition spaces are the rectangular, vertical elements attached to the wall under the balcony. Rice Building. Art Institute of Chicago. 1988https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/acropolis-nashville-parthenon-2017-08-19-002.jpgThe Parthenon. Nashville, Tennessee.The Parthenon in Nashville, Tennessee, is the only full-scale replica of the famous structure atop the Acropolis in Athens, Greece. All the elements of pure Doric Order are exhibited here: the frieze with detailed carvings of people and animals, a course of triglyphs and metopes is part of the entablature and in between the architrave and cornice. In the pediment is an intricately carved tympanum. Acroteria crown the pediment, and columns surround the structure on all sides. The columns are classic with drums moving up to the widening near the middle (entasis), and narrowing as the shaft meets the echinus, which meets the abacus. The architrave is rimmed with taenia and regula.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/soldier-field-doric-colonnade-1-173125.jpgSoldier Field Doric ColonnadeThe Doric Order colonnade and porticoes of the war memorial are true to the classic characteristics of the order. Doric capitals are stocky, plain and unadorned, the simplicity reflecting the transition to stone construction instead of the use of wood. In Greek temples, the columns rest directly on the stylobate without a base, emphasizing stability and strength. The war memorial is crafted of precision-dressed ashlar quality stonework, distinguished by finely cut and regularly shaped blocks of stoned meticulously fitted together. The effect is one of solidity and permanence. The war memorial at Soldier Field honors United States soldiers who died in combat. The name was changed from Municipal Grant Park Stadium in 1925. The old stadium was designed in 1919 and opened in 1924. Soldier Field. 1410 South Museum Campus Drive Style: Doric Order Architects of the original stadium: Holabird & Roche.2025-07-24T00:30:32+00:00monthlyhttps://frametheworks.com/portfolio/welcome-to-online-presentations-by-structural-photography-works/2025-07-24T00:30:32+00:00monthlyhttps://frametheworks.com/portfolio/datum-the-principle-of-datum-in-architecture-and-settlement-planning-the-principles-of-architecture-presentation-number-four/https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/usc-and-g-survey-marker-nw-corner-michigan-avenue-bridge-l1360548.jpgUSC and G Survey Marker NW corner Michigan Avenue BridgeThis USC & G benchmark designated as C135 1947 places coordinates of this part of the DuSable Bridge at 41° 53 21.2 North and 087° 37 27.4 West and its elevation at 617.32 feet.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/datum-of-shoreline-markers-for-lake-michigan.jpgDATUM of SHORELINE MARKERS for Lake MichiganLeft: This marker for the abandoned shoreline of Lake Michigan is on the east side of North Stockton Drive and north of West LaSalle Drive. The marker’s top edge is towards the southeast and Lake Shore Drive. Center: The text on the shoreline markers. Right: This abandoned shoreline marker for Lake Michigan is west of the recreation courts in Lincoln Park and along North Stockton Drive. It’s top edge lines along Lake Shore Drive.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/cdot-survey-marker-23-lake-and-wacker-collage.jpgCDOT Survey Marker 23 Lake and WackerChicago Department of Transportation Wacker Drive Rehabilitation Survey Marker 23 includes a dot in its center. Survey markers such as these are used to indicate specific points that have been precisely measured and recorded.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/datum-geodetic-dupage-0139-marker.jpgGeodetic Marker 0139. DuPage County. Hinsdale, Illinois.This detailed geodetic survey marker is detailed with the following information: location (DuPage County), purpose (Geodetic Survey Control Station Height Modernization Program), and designation (0139). The center symbol of a triangle with a dot in it is oriented so that a surveyor's plumb bob dropped over this dot will ensure precise location. https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/des-plaines-at-riverside-turns-e-l1050373.jpgDes Plaines River Winds Through Riverside, Illinois.The Des Plaines River is considered a natural datum. It flows 133 miles through Southern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois. The river served tribes for transportation and now is a recreational venue for boaters and fishers. The river could serve as a natural divider for the development of the area of Riverside and the nearby village of Lyons. Its course influenced the layout of the village and defines the landmark landscape planning of Frederick Law Olmsted and Vaux and Company. The river is a boundary for the Riverside Landscape Architecture District. 2025-07-24T00:30:32+00:00monthlyhttps://frametheworks.com/portfolio/hierarchy-in-architecture-the-principle-of-hierarchy-presentation-number-four-the-principles-of-archiecture/https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/merchandise-mart-and-wells-st-bridge.jpgMerchandise Mart and Wells St BridgeThe Merchandise Mart is a significant structure in the realm of Chicago’s architectural history. It was once the largest building in the world and is two city blocks wide by one city block long, occupying more than 4 million square feet. It was once the warehouse for Marshall Field. In the decades following the Great Depression, the structure has been adapted for retail use, tech startups, and designer showcases. MERCHANDISE MART. Designer: Alfred P. Shaw Firm: Graham, Anderson, Probst & White Style: Art Deco Year completed: 1930 Materials: steel-frame clad in limestone, terra cotta, and bronze.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/hierarchy-historical-elks-lp.jpgNational Headquarters of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. Chicago, Illinois.The rotunda of the Elks National Headquarters in Lincoln Park was conceived as a memorial to the Elks who were lost in World War I. The structure was completed in 1926 and has been rededicated to honor members lost in subsequent conflicts. The building combines historical reverence with architectural excellence. https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/chicago-water-works-am-l1000567.jpgChicago Water Works Pumping Station. #1There is still a fully functional pumping room in the building. The smokestack rises above the engine room. It stands across from the Water Tower. Date: 1869.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/chicago-water-tower-best-1-144446.jpgThe Water Tower of Chicago. #1.The iconic Water Tower (1869) in downtown Chicago survived the 1871 fire. It stands across from the Pumping Station. Both are constructed of Joliet-Lemont limestone. Today it serves as a museum. The tower is in the Castellated Gothic Revival style. The architect: William W. Boyington.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/hierarchy-riverside-water-tower-2020-09-26-047.jpgRiverside Water Tower. Riverside, Illinois.The Water Tower was the first of the buildings in the iconic Water Works complex and has been vital to the historic village since it was built in 1869. The tower was designed by William Le Baron Jenney in the Swiss Gothic style. The village is considered a National Historic Landmark.2025-07-24T00:30:32+00:00monthlyhttps://frametheworks.com/portfolio/symmetry-a-basic-principle-of-architecture-the-principles-of-architecture-presentation-number-two/https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/symmetry-bilateral-gar-memorial-hall-mm-ccc-l1000043.jpgGrand Army of the Republic Memorial Hall. Chicago Cultural Center.Thie is an example of reflection (mirror or bilateral) symmetry. Elegant and sturdy green marble strengthens this triple doorway in part of the memorial hall of the Grand Army of the Republic. This solemnly elegant space is a reminder of the sacrifices of the Civil War. The rooms were restored in 2022. Chicago Cultural Center. Completed: 1897.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/symmetry-hermitage-hotel-nashville-182204.jpgThe Hermitage Hotel. Nashville, TennesseeSymmetry is exemplified in this view of the entrance in the Beaux-arts era Hermitage Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee. Featured are the marble staircase which creates a central axis around which mirror the elements of the arches, stained-glass ceiling, the ceiling’s ornamentations, and the placement of the chandeliers. These create a harmonious and pleasing space. Building opened: 1910.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/corinthian-order-symmetry-federal-reserve-chicago-l1060616.jpgCorinthian Order Symmetry Federal Reserve Chicago L1060616The main entrance elevation of the Federal Reserve Building in downtown Chicago is in the magnificent Corinthian Order and features six columns, a perfectly proportioned entablature, a pediment, and a frieze above the sets of doors. The Federal Reserve Building in Chicago exhibits an excellent example of a Corinthian hexastyle colonnade. The pediment is ornamented with an eagle in the tympanum, dentils under the cornice and along the raking geison, and acroteria on the corners and the apex. A fine frieze also trims the zone directly above the entrances. Federal Reserve Building. Established: 1914. Building date: 1922. Style: Beaux-arts.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/symmetry-wells-street-bridge.-l1190602.jpgWells Street Bridge Axis and Truss SymmetryThe Wells Street Bridge (original, 1922; rebuilt 2012-2013) exhibits longitudinal symmetry along its steel structure. The lines of the structure create a vanishing point in the center of the image. All elements of the bridge are symmetrical including trusses, bracing, beams, lanes and sidewalks and railings. This is the only time it is safe to look north along the bridge, during times when it is closed to allow the leaves to be raised for the passage of watercraft.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/tiffany-dome-fullerton-hall-aic-l1390065.jpgTiffany Dome at Fullerton Hall. Art Institute of Chicago.The entire diameter of the ornate Tiffany-designed dome at Fullerton Hall in the Art Institute of Chicago is a marvel to behold. It is a perfect example of radial symmetry, wherein the elements appear to radiate from a center, similar to the spokes on a bicycle wheel. The hall serves as an auditorium. and dates to 1898.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/symmetry-cus-n-to-s-1-115418.jpgArched Portal at the East Elevation of Chicago Union Station.The east elevation of Chicago Union Station presents a sturdy Tuscan Order colonnade, with perfectly proportioned columns, a coffered ceiling, and Roman-style arches. The axis (an essential principle of architecture) here is the long, straight path extending from the foreground to the background, aligned with the series of evenly spaced columns on the left side, along the geometrically patterned and balanced ceiling, and the series of doors, windows, and light fixtures on the right. The effect creates a sense of symmetry, drawing the view to the vanishing point in the distance. Chicago Union Station. Completed: 1925.2025-07-24T00:30:32+00:00monthlyhttps://frametheworks.com/portfolio/glassworks-functional-and-structural-glass-article-number-one/https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/chicago-federal-center-po-and-towers-1-l126083.jpgChicago Federal Center and Loop Post OfficeThe buildings of the Chicago Federal Center include the freestanding Loop Station post office and the Kluczynski Federal Building (completed 1974). This group of steel and glass structures exemplifies the minimalist approach for which Mies van der Rohe is famous. The post office (foreground) was completed in 1973. In the left background is the Dirksen Federal Building and Courthouse, completed in 1964.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/250-s-wacker-at-w-jackson-boulevard.double-bridge.jpg250 South Wacker and Gateway Center IV. Chicago, IllinoisLarge panes of glass with a greenish tint perfectly reflect the raised east leaf of the Jackson Boulevard Bridge along the Chicago River’s South Branch. 250 South Wacker Drive: Built 1958. Renovation completed: 2007. Across the river is Gateway Center IV, with its glass skin. The curved facade mirrors the curve of the Chicago River at that point. Gateway Center: 1983.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/entire-skylight-of-cus-great-hall-810.jpgEntire Skylight of Chicago Union Station's Great Hall.This is the entire span of the skylight over the Great Hall in Chicago Union Station. It is a masterpiece with a cast-iron frame and a new two-tier skylight system. Restoration finished: 2018. Restoration tier: 105-foot-wide x 187- foot-long protective segmented vault and five feet above the original, with aluminum framing. Style: barrel vault Dimensions of the original skylight: Height above the hall: 115 feet Length: 177 feet Square footage: 18,000 Number of sections: 13 individual 12-foot-wide x 83-foot-long segmented sections with a total of 2,068 lights of ¼-inch wire glass. Replacements of the original lights with 9/16-inch translucent, laminated, heat-strengthened glass. The new skylight is composed of 878 individual lights of high-performance glass with a low-e coating. Companies (industrial): Linetec, Viracon, Goettsch Partners AMTRAK (owners of the station).https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/chicago-style-windows-sullivan-center-181937.jpgChicago Style Windows of the Sullivan CenterBanks of Chicago-style windows make up the facades of the Sullivan Center in the Chicago Loop. The Chicago window’s styling is of one large, single fixed glass pane in the center, which is flanked by two narrower sashes of the same height, each filling a structural bay. The flanking elements are double-hung sash windows with no dividing muntins. Sullivan Center: 1899https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/sears-tower-triptych-1.jpgArrises of the Sears Tower. Chicago, IllinoisThe arrises on the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower) in Chicago are prominently visible and play a crucial role in its architectural design. These sharp edges, where two flat surfaces meet, run vertically along the building's facade. They delineate the tower's bundled-tube structure, creating a distinct network of edges that give the building its unique stepped appearance. This design not only adds visual interest but also enhances the building's structural integrity, allowing it to withstand strong winds and other environmental factors. Architects: Skidmore, Owings and Merrill (SOM), Fazlur Khan, and Bruce Graham. Main material: steel. Building date: completed 1974.2024-07-16T21:18:31+00:00monthlyhttps://frametheworks.com/portfolio/axis-an-essential-principle-of-architecture-the-principles-of-architecture-presentation-number-one/https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/axis-w-to-e-roosevelt-road-2017-04-23-082.jpgRoosevelt Road Urban Interface Axis.This view is along the west-east axis of Roosevelt Road in Chicago. It centers on the Shedd Aquarium. Elements include regular lanes and streetlights and traffic lights directing traffic movement. The layout of Roosevelt Road (1200 block south or 12th Street) follows the city's grid pattern.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/central-axis-cus-e-w-axis-n-s-demarcation-l1340720.jpgGreat Hall Symmetry. Chicago Union Station.The colossal Corinthian Order defines the Great Hall at Chicago Union Station. Shown is an example of bilateral, or mirror symmetry. The hall revolves around a central axis which runs down its entire length and here, looking west to east, it centers on the large window at the end of the corridor. Two staircases mirror each other, and natural light illuminates the entire space from a gigantic skylight. The pair of statues, titled Night and Day, complement each other above the golden travertine-faced space, uniform in appearance due to the ashlar quality of the work. The ornamentation of the ceiling and the patterns in the stone floor continue the principle of symmetry. The effect is a balanced, harmonious arrangement.https://frametheworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/central-axis-aic-gallery-121829.jpgCENTRAL AXIS. Art Institute of Chicago. Digital Photograph.This view is north to south along a corridor in the Art Institute of Chicago. Part of the museum's collection of Asian art is displayed in the symmetrically aligned cases. The impression of a set of opened double doors gives a welcoming entrance to the gallery. The central pathway leads to galleries on the other side of a curtain wall and staircase.2024-05-09T20:02:05+00:00monthlyhttps://frametheworks.comdaily1.02026-04-24T05:19:57+00:00