If you want to learn more about the buildings mentioned in this video, along with 200 more from across the USA, check out the website I put together. You can read about the history of each building and zoom in to the detail at the tops! www.highrisescollection.com
I agree. Let's stop with the glass boxes. I think your next project should be the entrances to these buildings and the lobbies which are fantastic as well.
So glad you said that. The lobbies are much more accessible to virtually everyone, A place to show the character of a building. some literally tell stories through their murals and ornamentation.
My great grandfather was a construction worker in Chicago in the '20's and worked on some of the beautiful buildings that still stand in the city. When the depression hit, all new building stopped and he became a fireman to take care of his 8 children. When I was a kid my grandma pointed out the buildings he worked on and to this day I think of him when I pass them. I do hope we return to more beautiful and inspiring ornamentation like those ones built before WWII. Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge!
Glass boxes make sense from the inside. Lots of light in every room, good views and it feels more spacious. Also I imagine its a lot cheaper to build which is important in this hyper optimized economy. Having said that, travelling through any city, its never the glass boxes that catch your eye. Its always the unique old buildings with character and detail. The ones you can keep looking at and keep noticing new stuff. So I'm definitely a fan of bringing that back!
Totally agree that the glass boxes are an improvement to the interior. I think we can have both, even in ornamental screens that sit outboard of a glass facade to create interesting shadows and block solar heat gain.
@@ChrisHytha Oh totally, there is a middle ground thats both awesome on the outside, as the inside. And yeah, solar heat is becoming more and more of an issue. Sadly it seems current solutions are just to add an extra AC on the roof, instead of fixing it at the source.
There's definitely a middle ground with some clever design. Think of how bright and light the Sagrada Familia is going to be inside when it's finished with all those towers letting light in, but outside is incredibly ornate
I love that somebody as young as you is interested in Art Deco. I am passionate for this era. This is a beautiful book, what an amazing project. You should be so proud.
More accurately would be. I love that someone as young as him isnt brainwashed by modernists into liking modernist architecture. He doesnt have anyone tell him what should be considered beautiful and what not. He is actually listening to what his brain thinks is beautiful.
I had a lot of internal tension in architecture school with the idea of "Designing something cool." It is kinda a childish thought, and mostly this notion was discredited in school, but I found ways to do it as a designer that my professors would accept. It was just weird to me that we have thousands of years of architectural history of designers working greek, classical, gothic etc details, then in school no we were heavily discouraged from doing anything ornate just for the sake of it.
@ I love any kind of movement, either it be in architecture, fashion, furniture, music or art. Anything that is forward thinking. Frank Lloyd Wright, Eames, Gaudy, Geary etc. I feel the world hasn’t had a great jolt in style maybe since the 1980’s. Or maybe as far back as the 60’s . I also love Mid Century Modern, a total reversal from Art Deco. I’m open to Arts and Crafts and Art Nouveau. Let’s just say I appreciate design, good design.
@@robyoung9968 What we truly need is variety in architecture. You like modernist architecture and i dont. But the problem with modernist architecture is that they forced everyone to build in the modernist style. There should be more freedom when it comes to architecture. Everyone should be able to design in which style they like. Every place in the world should have their own unique style and not be a copy and paste.
I want to make it happen! Can't wait for 2030 when most of these buildings are having their 100 year birthday. I think people will start to look more closely at these old structures.
I live in Midland, MI. Known for its Mid-Century Modern architecture, it had little Art Deco, but we had the 1942 Midland Theatre, which stood out as a Streamline Moderne gem. While simple outside, it featured intricate interior reliefs and sculptures by Corrado Giuseppe Parducci, famed for his work on Detroit's Guardian and Fisher Buildings. When the theatre faced demolition in 1998, a hidden Parducci relief, "Midland: City of Modern Explorers," was rediscovered behind a 1960s drop ceiling. Archivists saved and recast it in bronze, inspiring Midland to adopt the piece's title as its new city slogan.
I love the style because it was not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. The big glass boxes are functional but devoid of beauty. So, yes, I agree! Let’s bring beauty to buildings back again!
Totally agree that those art deco buildings look absolutely awesome. The Chrystler building has always been a favourite of mine. There is no cooler looking skyscraper in the world imo. Truly epic.
I've never been a fan of Modernist or Brutalist architecture. Gothic and Art Deco have always been my favourites, dripping with character. Nightmares in the Sky was my introduction to looking up instead of just seeing the ground floor, and wow - the things I had missed! We need to ask our libraries for copies of your book, it could be a great resource.
Art Deco has ALWAYS been my favorite. I even have a long lasting love for Maxfield Parrish. I'm glad you showed the Foshay Tower in my hometown of Minneapolis. I went to an opthalmologist there growing up. My parents talked about when it was the tallest building. In 1997 I worked at an architecture firm in DC and forever love the entirety of architecture.
Be encouraged. The movement toward classical education in architecture continues apace. Deco, (if I understand it correctly), synthesizes classical proportions with primarily classical Egyptian motifs, and then riffs on the imagery. People crave beauty, and as you say, a story. To see this coming back is very exciting.
Thank you for the comment, I agree that Deco is really a synthesis of styles, and I want to see a unique style that could emerge from deco mixing with contemporary architecture. Could be cool
Another terrific instalment, Chris. Thank you. Art Deco is my favourite style, followed closely by Art Nouveau. Actually, on any given day the two alternate in my heart. And then I see almost anything by Frank Lloyd Wright and get dizzy. If you have time, please look up two buildings here in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Firstly, the 'Barak Building' on Swanston Street, between Victoria St & Queensberry St. It's modern but beautiful. The facade has the image of an aboriginal elder from one angle. The best is from a slight elevation that may be difficult to get to on Google Maps, but worth it if you can. Maybe the vision we saw the first time was from a helicopter. Secondly, 'Marina Tower' at 8 Pearl River Road, Docklands. Skew-whiff. Both are modern but different and make me glad that something unique can be designed and approved for construction. Also, there is the 'Forum Theatre" in Flinders Street, that is a gorgeous Gothic design. I whole-heartedly agree that ornamentation could be done relatively cheaply now with modern technology. Let's keep pushing those thoughts out into the universe.
your passion for these buildings and their architecture is very motivating and refreshing. i cant help but mention this feels like a filler episode in my favorite show lol, cant wait for what comes next!
I have spent so much time with these buildings, glad the passion comes through. It is a bit of a filler episode, I got some sponsors on the channel now, so I have to shift my upload schedule to allow time for sponsor review. I have an episode on the house edited already for next Monday that I am very excited to put out! It was a busy week trying to edit 2 videos
I have my little ol' rusty nail from your house sitting on my bookshelf next to me! For some reason, despite being so small and old, it's cool to think about it's history. Thank you!
Thank you for your support!! I agree, it is just cool to share a little piece of the home that has become such a big part of my life. I have many more ideas to explore around that idea!
Hi Chris, That was an amazing video! I really enjoyed it! I've been curious about how you photographed the buildings, and your process is fascinating! Thanks for the great video! 😊
We bought your book as we were watching one of your videos. Now we are in Pittsburgh and are going to see every one featured! We love following along as you renovate your home as well. ❤
One of my best friends got married a few years ago, and she had her wedding reception at Atlanta City Hall. The inside of the building is just as beautiful!
Chris, loved the step away from the home renovation into your personal brand! I’d love to see more behind the scenes on your filming setup, maybe a studio/gear walkthrough? Keep it up!
That is definitely something I could work into a future reno video. Next monday we will be back to the usual programming. I had to delay my uploads on the house because I got some sponsors, and they require a week to review, so it was a busy week making two videos!
Art Deco is a favorite style of mine. Even here in little old RI, we have the Industrial National Bank Building or as it is known here as "The Superman Building".
I admit, I hadn't really thought about Art Deco buildings but I sure appreciate your artwork showcasing these landmarks. Thanks for the upload! See you next week. :)
So much work involved in creating this masterpiece about well, masterpieces! Thank you, Chris & Mark. And this video took lots of hours too. Great job.
Great video, Chris! It was nice to see a bit of the insight into how your images were made. It looks like it was a lot of work, but you're doing the world a service by preserving a snapshot of our (gorgeous) built environment. Thanks for highlighting the Architects Building in Philly, too! I've met some of the Gensler folks that worked on its adaptive reuse 15or-so years ago and my partner lived 2 blocks away there last year... I walked by it a few times a week and I love me some art deco!!!!! Thanks again for the video. Great message and I agree all day.
You probably didn’t have this idea in your mind when making this video, but I think you produced a high quality advertorial for this project! It’s consistent with your project quality & restores some dignity to marketing. After doing some research on your row house project, I’m hopeful you will eventually do a mini documentary on that one too, especially with what you learned from the NFT process. I don’t think NFTs are dead, but I need more perspectives, especially from people who experienced it, & the fad aftermath. Something to produce in your new home studio?
Thanks for your comment. NFTs are largely misunderstood by the public, and I would like to comment on this sometime. Unfortunately people have a knee jerk reaction to "NFT" as the term as been synonymous with scams, but in terms of artists sharing their work, there is great possibility. I like the analogy to selling prints. People are not buying the paper / ink, which is relatively inexpensive, they are buying for the value of the image. The paper represents a tiny percentage of what they are paying for, so its not too much different to have 0 physical product, and pay entirely for the value of the image, and the verifiable ownership the blockchain provides.
Architecture is probably my favorite art form, and your pictures are such great representations of some great examples. Your book is on my Christmas list!
I always have loved Art Deco and i want to get your book when I have some extra money for sure. I love old architecture, and your book is right up my alley. I totally agree with you about the big glass boxes.They are boring except for the fact they reflect sunsets and other nice reflective images. Other than that boring. I would absolutely love to see tall big buildings go back to that art deco, look. I've always loved the schools out there that were in the Art Deco Design too. P s nice to see that you included that building in rochester, new york with the weird wing top. I lived in that area most of my life except for 3 years ago and that building is pretty famous around there. Love your book love your channel!❤
I love architecture! I look like a tourist wherever I go b/c I’m always looking up at the buildings. I love art deco but also find beauty in some of the modern designs. I think architecture may be like fashion. History repeats itself. Bell bottoms were “in” in the 1970s and then reappeared reimagined as boot cut in the late 90s/early 2000s. I think ornamentation on buildings will do the same - reappear reimagined, based on updated technology, evolving design concepts, etc.
Everyone in Central Ohio feels like they somehow own part of the Lincoln-LeVeque Tower here in Columbus, Ohio, U.S. Born 73 years ago 50 miles east in Zanesville and now residing in Dublin a few miles NE. It has always been my skyscraper. Now, if I had the funds, I could buy a beautiful condo there... At this point, I don't see that happening. But I'll still admire it from afar!
That is one of my favorites as well! Have you seen the original ornamentation that was removed from the building? Not sure where it ended up, but you can see it in old photos, and there is a model of the building in the lobby that shows the original sculptures on the building. They were crazy!
When standing on the ground looking up, the LeVeque Tower looks big. When face-to-face with the two-story tall winged-figures at the corners of the building, one quickly realizes the building is BIG. Although the building has Art Deco touches, mainly in its interior, classical references are the dominant ornament on the exterior. These include rondelles with helmeted figures in profile and the date of 1925 in Roman numerals, and fasces with double-bladed axes at the corner octagonal turrets. Amazingly, even larger ornamental pieces have been removed from the building. The 26-foot tall statuary groups at the 39th floor on the four sides of the building, each depicting a man embracing children, and eagles perched at the 34th floor at each corner are no longer in place. The ornamental terra cotta was created by Chicago sculptor Fritz Albert, the chief modeler of the Northwestern Terra Cotta Company. verticalaccessllc.wordpress.com/2012/04/25/the-faces-of-leveque-tower/
i lived in sf for a few years and it was so great to see and experience a lot of unique architecture. another thing a lot of these older buildings will have are murals and mosaics which are absolutely stunning to see in person. i don't live in a city that has too many tall building anymore but i would love so see even some more modestly sized structures with more character.
I know nothing about architecture, but for me, Art Deco is the perfect combination of modern and ornamental styles of old. Here in Argentina there are some buildings in that style, but very few. Visiting skyscrapers like the Empire State Building was a unique experience I hope I get the chance to do again soon.
The interiors of buildings like the ESB are especially amazing too. I visited Buenos Aires earlier this year and got to see some of the skyscrapers there up close.
I definitely agree with you on replacing huge glass box. Buildings with art deco, designs for future urban construction. I also am enjoying your series on the rehab of your home in Philadelphia. You’re a very creative, intelligent, gent. I look forward to following you in the future.
Thanks for your support! Sorry for the filler episode, next Monday will be back to the usual programming. Very excited about the intro to next week's video. Its a doosy
I know LaVeck Tower. It's a beauty and tells me I'm home. Come to Biltmore in Asheville, NC. You will really like it...take all the behind the scenes tours.
Really enjoyed this video! Loved the images and appreciated you telling us how you created the pictures. Every university architecture library should have a copy of your book!
I find this fascinating. I think my interest in architecture comes from trips to Glasgow city centre when young, with my Mother telling me to "look up" to see the carvings on the buildings. They're not of the scale shown here and many are older but thought provoking and lovely nonetheless. It's an odd juxtaposition to see traditional sandstone with fantastic stonemasonry next to glass and steel boxes in places.
My partner and I have been loving the coffee table book Chris! It's been a great conversation starter with friends too! This video is a great recap of the history of art deco and the awesome project you and Mark pulled off ! By the way, you mentioned some well executed contemporary skyscraper designs by SHoP Architects in NYC, I'm curious to hear your thoughts on the designs of Robert A.M. Stern's firm which are attempting to emulate art deco directly 🤔 Are there enough examples of "neo-deco" or "echo-deco" for a sequel? 👀
Thanks for supporting the project! Love to hear that it is starting good conversations. I like Stern's designs, and mission generally of course! I do think they might be too direct of the past. I imagine a new style inspired by deco, but that takes advantage of new tech, and looks visually different enough to know its modern, like the couple examples I showed. Stern's designed almost look like they could be old, and feel almost disingenuous in that way.
It's interesting how controversial RAMSA is within the architecture world, but it makes sense as we are still largely within the modernist paradigm. I also personally tend to like his work, or at the very least I appreciate the respect for context and regional/local vernacular within the designs. Whether they are disingenuous is also a fascinating question to me. Was 18th century neo-classical architecture disingenuous because it referenced ancient Roman and Greek vernacular? Is the Chicago Tribune building disingenuous for referencing medieval Gothic styles? Maybe these RAMSA buildings just need a good patina and in time we'll see them differently. But I broadly agree with your assessment that with innovation in material manufacturing, we are primed for a "neo-art deco" revival soon! Keep up the great work as always!
I absolutely love this book, and would love to get a copy, as a UK resident, the $50.00 delivery is a very big ouch, but I am coming round slowly. It looks incredible, and I definitely think it is a wonderful compulation of some of the greatest building in the State, and a very important historical reference . Well done
Thank you for the kind words. I understand the issue with costly shipping, but unfortunately as a heavy, oversize book, that is just what it costs. Perhaps if you know anyone traveling to the USA they could have it shipped here, and bring it back to the UK
I think modern buildings are more function over form and a bland box is much, much cheaper to build. But yes, to go back to some Deco style would be a vast improvement. .The Paris Metro stations are a beutiful example of Deco at its best, but low level and not skyscrapers.
I think there is a way to maintain the better function of modern buildings, while adding ornamentation in an affordable why with advancements in manufacturing like CNC. It will still be more expensive, so we would need the larger architectural taste of society to shift back to enjoying this fine detail in buildings
During the era of Art Deco, most of the corporate money building high rises was in the mid-west and eastern cities. On the west coast, there are a few examples, but my taste, the post-modern movement with architects like Frank Gehry and Michael Graves are equally striking. Disney Concert Hall or the Portland Building come to mind. San Diego had a post-modern shipping mall, The Horton Plaza, that was recently demolished due lack of maintenance and by the death of shopping malls in general.
LA has a handful of deco, but they are all shorter because of the hight limit. Of course they have city hall too which is a great deco tower. SF got a bit more in the way of corporate deco towers.
I hope that can change. The architectural industry is very committed to making buildings greener, and often times reusing an old building is the most sustainable option. Making buildings today that can last 100-200 years is the next best thing.
@ Right after the National Historic Preservation Act was passed in 1966, there were tax incentives to do just that. In the 70s, there were many projects going on. Then they just seemed to end abruptly. I have no idea why.
I think that the same thoughts shared here regarding the outside of the buildings could also be applied to the interiors. My favorite Art Deco building interior is the Koppers Building in Pittsburgh. The Empire State Building is right in there, but the lobby of the Koppers Building is pretty sweet.
I love that lobby too. I especially love the elevator doors. They are always unique in deco bldgs, and take little motifs from the exterior design to create a holistic experience.
I agree about our loss of ornamentation. San Diego still has a few. The county administration building downtown and Balboa Park. I would love to see the ornamentation of the Art Deco era brought back but not as an imitation but with a modern spin. Color, texture, materials, carvings. I love terracotta and glazed tiles. I am horrified the Bonwit Teller friezes were destroyed for really no reason at all.
Saying that tastes in architecture simply change overlooks the deeper reasons behind these shifts. Architectural styles evolve not just because of aesthetic whims but as reflections of collective values, priorities, and ideals held by society. For example, Gothic cathedrals expressed a community’s dedication to transcendence and spirituality, while postmodern architecture embodies values like innovation. Each style responds to cultural, social, and economic forces, making architecture a material expression of what society values at a given time rather than merely a trend that comes and goes. Bad architecture is a symptom of a society that has lost touch with the idea of "telos" - and none of us are better off for it. Go to Church on Sunday. Read classical books. Love your spouse and raise strong children. Our skylines will look better.
That is a good point. As I mentioned in the video, Deco perfectly embodies the culture of the 1920s, and I need to take a more critical look at how a reinterpretation of the style would properly represent culture today. I think my best rational is in the advancements of manufacturing and even AI. I love how 3D printing buildings entirely changes how we go about design and ornamentation, as right angles are no longer helpful to cost, and ornamentation can be implemented with a few lines of code and 0 extra cost. Not that we will 3d print skyscrapers any time soon, but the hope is that eventually detail does not equal too much added cost.
I hope, I can get my local libary here in Denmark to acquire your book, as I would really love to flip through! This summer I went to Barcalona with my husband and we saw Gaudis house. It made my trip to Barcelona. Love the details in his work :)
Fantastic work! I don't hate the glass boxes (and even like Brutalism) but would rather prefer a more varied style across cities. Art Deco is definitely impressive but having to photograph the top also shows how they were built as ivory towers where the most impressive ornamentation is not within the reach of those at the base. A "Neo Art Deco" could make this more equitable and inculcate the best ornamentation at the street level instead, contributing more to the streetscape. Will definitely be getting the book!
ive been obsessed with ornamentation and the storytelling through style, this book ticks all my boxes. the glass boxes would be fine if they werent so god damn dainty and synthetic feeling. i love the monumental safety of brutalism, but i also love the psychedelic adornments of art nouveau. art deco still had some romance.
@@ChrisHytha I think we will see the warmth from classical ornamentation combined with the parameter generated hadid-like structures for more art nouveau-like skyscrapers in the future.
It would be great if they brought back art deco building but the extravagance that led up to the Great Depression soured people and coupled with new no nonsense building technologies keeps them forever in the past unfortunately. Great video, thank you
I think you need to consider how the City Beautiful Movement of the early part of the 20th century influenced skyscraper design. The CB movement combined philosophy and gracefulness into public spaces - parks, monuments, and buildings, with the idea that things in public should be appealing to look at, not just functional. Thanks very much for the quick overview on how you constructed the pictures. As a photographer, I would love to see a more detailed explanation, as it's very inspiring for us creators.
I have not read up too much on the City Beautiful movement, but I need to. That idea of the value of a beautiful building is hard to quantify, how can our buildings make up more proud of a place, and a community.
Continuously impressed by your multidisciplinary skillset - and what you don't know you seem to just dive into and learn to get it done. Imagining what went into testing for the drone photography, figuring out the proper focal lengths for the 'gigapixel' type scans, figuring out proper angles for the background plates, competently flying and photographing using the drone in limited time windows (while also grabbing video shots for future use), the logistics of coordinating with government entities, illustrator, photoshop, layout, printing, graphic design, architecture, construction, videography, editing, storytelling, and presentation? ridiculous. someday somebody will give you a budget to accomplish what you are really capable of.
I appreciate the kind words, and thank you for really seeing what went into this project. Took a lot of skill sets and a lot of time! Some skills I had from school, and some new skills I needed to develop. Very proud of the project.
You can have the same discussion on ornamentation on a smaller scale, just look at railings or doors now compared to the art deco period. Are you considering having some smaller scale ornamentation on your renovation? I read somewhere there is a good argument to build with more stone again for environmental reasons as well as aesthetics.
Yes, I definitely plan to integrate a lot of small scale ornamentation, specifically in my own custom design and fabrication for things like an art deco inspired mantel piece, column enclosure, light fixtures, etc. I have a 3d printer, and I want to get a laser cutter or CNC to bring back ornamentation affordably in my own home.
To your point, the Power and Light building in Kansas City was meant to be a dual tower but the great depression hit and was never completed, which is why one side is a flat wall.
In the last few years I've noticed myself looking at the older buildings here in europe and looking across the street and seeing a glass box and really questioning why on earth did we change. I wish it was a viable option to build my own huise and bring some of this back to life.. maybe.. someday..
I've loved Art Deco since I was quite young and have collected objects of the 20's/30's for years. The details of the buildings from this era are simply jaw-dropping, but sadly in the world of today more people look down at a phone than up at the world around them. I'll never forget my first trip to Chicago and seeing the Carbide & Carbon Building. WOW! On a side note, it bothers me what people label "Art Deco" today, which includes a lot of tacky mid-century items from the 50's and 60's. They are not even close to the aesthetics of true art deco objects!
Maybe if we build a world that people want to look at they will stop looking at their phone! Part of my idea with the book is to help people see, and realize the beauty all around us if you just look up!
Honestly I like your analysis and argument for incorporating ornamentation. It goes beyond it just looks good and into the how and why. I also want to add to your section about modernism. Modernism does tell a story but its usually about how the building was made celebrating the “craftsmen” of the time in a different way. A lot of modernist details are “ornamental” just to show the structure in a better light. For example a mies corner that has no function at all other than to tell the story of how the building was made. I also want to add to your analysis of why we should bring back ornamentation. Not only can we make it cost effective through cnc and digital design, but there are also giant teams of designer on hand who could solely focus on this ornamentation-story telling level of design. With modern structural design these details could exist separately from buildings and it could be a lucrative business to propose these to glass projects looking for cultural relevance
Thanks for your addition to the conversation. I agree with what you said about modernism. There is craftsmanship in good detailing, even in minimal detailing, and there are firms now doing incredible work creating iconic buildings through thoughtful details, and I value this in the same way as the more blatant ornamentation. And I like your last note of designers who could specialize in this, it of course would be another line item for a developer, but if ornate details could bring a building more media and press / public support, it might be worth the expense.
I've seen a number of buildings in the UK which have the ground level modernized to a standard storefront, but first floor and up externally have the historic facade. It's a shame that the cost of doing something like that here in the US is likely prohibitive. There are a lot of gilded age homes (mansion compared to today but like 8-10 room house) in New England, lot of which get converted to apartments. Preserves the buildings, sorta, though I've seen more than a few lost to confirmed arson unfortunately (also not sure how large the apartments end up being depending on the house)
Before getting into UA-cam I refined my style of Photography for nearly a decade! The answer is lots of Photoshop to create these very intentional images
Hey Chris! I'm enjoying your content. Thanks for creating and sharing. Just wanted to share a quick note: I find your audio volumes to be a bit all over the map ranging from inaudible dialogue to screaming loud music. While I'm watching I'm constantly adjusting my volume. I look forward to seeing an improvement as you continue to produce. Please feel free to reach out if you want any advice on software or other tools/tips to help in this process. Cheers!
I agree the deco building is more pleasing to view. From a design standpoint of maximum height, weight of structure, ability to move in wind or seismic activity, can a building be built of material that was used in the 20’s or are current engineering, budget and tenant requirements the reason for the current glass towers?
The buildings in the 20s were essentially the same construction method today, steel frame with cladding, instead of glass curtain wall they just used stone and terracotta in places, but it is not structural, just like the glass is not structural today. Tenant requirements of more light and flexibility is the main thing, but that can be achieved while still adding ornamentation. Big thing is cost...
I've been following your Rowhome renovation series and have heard you plug your book a few times. I've been wondering how you composite and edit the skyscraper photos, so it's nice to get the breakdown!
Not Art Deco or a skyscraper but lookup Crossness Pumping Station, a stunning example of what the Victorians got up to! And I believe it's not the only example :)
Sheeeesh that is stunning! I love Deco, but my thesis is really more on bringing back that sense of craftsmanship, and human influence that sleek modern design doesn't offer. Love this example
recently finished richard sennetts book, the craftsman, it's a pretty interesting read for anyone interested in that, though more on sociological side of things
Can't see them in detail, but you know they are there. For me looking up and seeing the texture and detail up there sparks my imagination. Also, for neighboring buildings, and the people looking out the windows at the city.
Depending on the city you can also see it from elevated public transit, or from neighboring buildings. At least this is the case in Chicago: I love looking out the window on my commute and seeing all the detail. Sure there's a lot on the crowns of the buildings I can't see beyond a guilded glisten. But there's plenty on lower floors too as I roll past on the El. Same even looking across from some of the buildings I've been in, looking over at other buildings you can see sculptural reliefs and designs.
That is my long term goal! I already got one commission to design a deco inspired building. Just a concept for a developer right now, but perhaps it could be built down the road. Looking for more commissions
Driving through lower Manhattan and looking at the new glass boxes I wonder about the design being an expression of the engineering that enable them to look like they are defying gravity, for example the Jenga tower building. They seem to be showing off to my mind. And what do you think of the buildings with plants on their outer walls?
I agree that at the high end, "Glass Box" towers are expressive and iconic in their own way, and the good ones do include some level of unique detailing that sets them apart. As for plant buildings, it seems they never quire work out.
If you want to learn more about the buildings mentioned in this video, along with 200 more from across the USA, check out the website I put together. You can read about the history of each building and zoom in to the detail at the tops!
www.highrisescollection.com
I agree. Let's stop with the glass boxes. I think your next project should be the entrances to these buildings and the lobbies which are fantastic as well.
No reason why we can't fill our cities with beautiful ornate buildings with the tech we have today.
yes, more beautiful buildings.
So glad you said that. The lobbies are much more accessible to virtually everyone, A place to show the character of a building. some literally tell stories through their murals and ornamentation.
My great grandfather was a construction worker in Chicago in the '20's and worked on some of the beautiful buildings that still stand in the city. When the depression hit, all new building stopped and he became a fireman to take care of his 8 children. When I was a kid my grandma pointed out the buildings he worked on and to this day I think of him when I pass them. I do hope we return to more beautiful and inspiring ornamentation like those ones built before WWII. Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge!
Thank you for sharing your story! That is incredible how much those buildings mean to you because of your families connection to them
@@ChrisHytha Thanks Chris! I just ordered the book, and also framed the print that I got from you this morning! I'm loving your channel!
@@feelingkevinly I appreciate your support!
Glass boxes make sense from the inside. Lots of light in every room, good views and it feels more spacious. Also I imagine its a lot cheaper to build which is important in this hyper optimized economy.
Having said that, travelling through any city, its never the glass boxes that catch your eye. Its always the unique old buildings with character and detail. The ones you can keep looking at and keep noticing new stuff. So I'm definitely a fan of bringing that back!
Totally agree that the glass boxes are an improvement to the interior. I think we can have both, even in ornamental screens that sit outboard of a glass facade to create interesting shadows and block solar heat gain.
@@ChrisHytha Oh totally, there is a middle ground thats both awesome on the outside, as the inside. And yeah, solar heat is becoming more and more of an issue. Sadly it seems current solutions are just to add an extra AC on the roof, instead of fixing it at the source.
There's definitely a middle ground with some clever design. Think of how bright and light the Sagrada Familia is going to be inside when it's finished with all those towers letting light in, but outside is incredibly ornate
I love that somebody as young as you is interested in Art Deco. I am passionate for this era. This is a beautiful book, what an amazing project. You should be so proud.
More accurately would be. I love that someone as young as him isnt brainwashed by modernists into liking modernist architecture. He doesnt have anyone tell him what should be considered beautiful and what not. He is actually listening to what his brain thinks is beautiful.
Thank you for your support!
I had a lot of internal tension in architecture school with the idea of "Designing something cool." It is kinda a childish thought, and mostly this notion was discredited in school, but I found ways to do it as a designer that my professors would accept. It was just weird to me that we have thousands of years of architectural history of designers working greek, classical, gothic etc details, then in school no we were heavily discouraged from doing anything ornate just for the sake of it.
@ I love any kind of movement, either it be in architecture, fashion, furniture, music or art. Anything that is forward thinking. Frank Lloyd Wright, Eames, Gaudy, Geary etc. I feel the world hasn’t had a great jolt in style maybe since the 1980’s. Or maybe as far back as the 60’s . I also love Mid Century Modern, a total reversal from Art Deco. I’m open to Arts and Crafts and Art Nouveau. Let’s just say I appreciate design, good design.
@@robyoung9968 What we truly need is variety in architecture. You like modernist architecture and i dont. But the problem with modernist architecture is that they forced everyone to build in the modernist style. There should be more freedom when it comes to architecture. Everyone should be able to design in which style they like. Every place in the world should have their own unique style and not be a copy and paste.
I DEFINITELY AGREE WE NEED MORE ART DECO
I want to make it happen! Can't wait for 2030 when most of these buildings are having their 100 year birthday. I think people will start to look more closely at these old structures.
Art Deco my favorite architecture and interior design
Me too (:
Aye, can't disagree but my poor Arts & Crafts never gets enough love xp
I live in Midland, MI. Known for its Mid-Century Modern architecture, it had little Art Deco, but we had the 1942 Midland Theatre, which stood out as a Streamline Moderne gem. While simple outside, it featured intricate interior reliefs and sculptures by Corrado Giuseppe Parducci, famed for his work on Detroit's Guardian and Fisher Buildings. When the theatre faced demolition in 1998, a hidden Parducci relief, "Midland: City of Modern Explorers," was rediscovered behind a 1960s drop ceiling. Archivists saved and recast it in bronze, inspiring Midland to adopt the piece's title as its new city slogan.
I love how some of the skyscrapers has crazy temple style tops! Yes, let's def bring them back.
I always assumed those were Vampire houses
I'd love to see artdeco houses bought back! Seeing so many pulled down in Melbourne Australia to make way from crappy stucco/render finish houses
Im from sweden, so i dont know anything about the architecture of these buildings, but they look very nice!
I always love to hear from the international audience! Thanks for watching.
It was great to hear how the pictures were made! So cool!!
Thanks for watching! I love Deco.
I love the style because it was not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. The big glass boxes are functional but devoid of beauty. So, yes, I agree! Let’s bring beauty to buildings back again!
Yes! And I don't think we need to compromise on the benefits the glass towers brought. I think you can do both.
Totally agree that those art deco buildings look absolutely awesome. The Chrystler building has always been a favourite of mine. There is no cooler looking skyscraper in the world imo. Truly epic.
I agree! It's crazy that a building from 100 years ago is still what you think of when you think skyscraper
I've never been a fan of Modernist or Brutalist architecture. Gothic and Art Deco have always been my favourites, dripping with character. Nightmares in the Sky was my introduction to looking up instead of just seeing the ground floor, and wow - the things I had missed! We need to ask our libraries for copies of your book, it could be a great resource.
I love all the work you're doing - very inspiring!
Art Deco has ALWAYS been my favorite. I even have a long lasting love for Maxfield Parrish.
I'm glad you showed the Foshay Tower in my hometown of Minneapolis. I went to an opthalmologist there growing up. My parents talked about when it was the tallest building.
In 1997 I worked at an architecture firm in DC and forever love the entirety of architecture.
Be encouraged. The movement toward classical education in architecture continues apace. Deco, (if I understand it correctly), synthesizes classical proportions with primarily classical Egyptian motifs, and then riffs on the imagery. People crave beauty, and as you say, a story. To see this coming back is very exciting.
Thank you for the comment, I agree that Deco is really a synthesis of styles, and I want to see a unique style that could emerge from deco mixing with contemporary architecture. Could be cool
Another terrific instalment, Chris. Thank you. Art Deco is my favourite style, followed closely by Art Nouveau. Actually, on any given day the two alternate in my heart. And then I see almost anything by Frank Lloyd Wright and get dizzy.
If you have time, please look up two buildings here in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Firstly, the 'Barak Building' on Swanston Street, between Victoria St & Queensberry St. It's modern but beautiful. The facade has the image of an aboriginal elder from one angle. The best is from a slight elevation that may be difficult to get to on Google Maps, but worth it if you can. Maybe the vision we saw the first time was from a helicopter.
Secondly, 'Marina Tower' at 8 Pearl River Road, Docklands. Skew-whiff.
Both are modern but different and make me glad that something unique can be designed and approved for construction.
Also, there is the 'Forum Theatre" in Flinders Street, that is a gorgeous Gothic design.
I whole-heartedly agree that ornamentation could be done relatively cheaply now with modern technology. Let's keep pushing those thoughts out into the universe.
your passion for these buildings and their architecture is very motivating and refreshing. i cant help but mention this feels like a filler episode in my favorite show lol, cant wait for what comes next!
I have spent so much time with these buildings, glad the passion comes through. It is a bit of a filler episode, I got some sponsors on the channel now, so I have to shift my upload schedule to allow time for sponsor review. I have an episode on the house edited already for next Monday that I am very excited to put out! It was a busy week trying to edit 2 videos
I agree we should stop the glass and bring back the class❤
I have my little ol' rusty nail from your house sitting on my bookshelf next to me! For some reason, despite being so small and old, it's cool to think about it's history. Thank you!
Thank you for your support!! I agree, it is just cool to share a little piece of the home that has become such a big part of my life. I have many more ideas to explore around that idea!
Hi Chris, That was an amazing video! I really enjoyed it! I've been curious about how you photographed the buildings, and your process is fascinating! Thanks for the great video! 😊
Thanks for watching! I appreciate the support
We bought your book as we were watching one of your videos. Now we are in Pittsburgh and are going to see every one featured! We love following along as you renovate your home as well. ❤
Thanks for supporting the project! Happy holidays
One of my best friends got married a few years ago, and she had her wedding reception at Atlanta City Hall. The inside of the building is just as beautiful!
I didn't get a chance to see inside unfortunately, but judging by the exterior, I'm sure the interior is incredibly ble too!
I was walking downtown in my city and I was thinking the same as your title! I love Art Deco!
Thanks for your comment! Keep looking up
loooove art deco style.
Me too (:
I bought your book about a year ago and it's absolutely precious! amazing work!
Thank you for supporting the project!
Chris, loved the step away from the home renovation into your personal brand! I’d love to see more behind the scenes on your filming setup, maybe a studio/gear walkthrough? Keep it up!
That is definitely something I could work into a future reno video. Next monday we will be back to the usual programming. I had to delay my uploads on the house because I got some sponsors, and they require a week to review, so it was a busy week making two videos!
I wish I could afford the book right now! It would be my perfect coffee table book!
Thanks for your support! For now, it is totally free to explore these buildings and read their histories on my site
Art Deco is a favorite style of mine. Even here in little old RI, we have the Industrial National Bank Building or as it is known here as "The Superman Building".
RI has some AMAZING architecture. You’re blessed.
Continue to love the book, and my C&C Lamp!
Next project “Echo-Deco” Post-Modernism?!
I admit, I hadn't really thought about Art Deco buildings but I sure appreciate your artwork showcasing these landmarks. Thanks for the upload! See you next week. :)
Thanks for watching! Back to the usual programming next week. I have a fun intro for the next house update that I'm excited to share!
Absolutely brilliant these buildings are beautiful. I’ve always loved art deco whether it be architecture or fashion . Love it. Wow you’re so clever.
Thanks for your support! Trying my best to bring deco back!
TRUEEEE there is nothing like art deco
and "rusted" copper or whatever the technical term is
Aesthetics are important. I salute you brother 🫡
Thanks for your support!
Love art deco. Great to see it getting some appreciation.
A fantastic record to honour the legacy of the ornamentation 🏙️
Thank you! I am beyond impressed with the designers and builders of the past. It is the least I could do to honor their accomplishments.
I love art deco!
So much work involved in creating this masterpiece about well, masterpieces!
Thank you, Chris & Mark.
And this video took lots of hours too. Great job.
Great video, Chris! It was nice to see a bit of the insight into how your images were made. It looks like it was a lot of work, but you're doing the world a service by preserving a snapshot of our (gorgeous) built environment.
Thanks for highlighting the Architects Building in Philly, too! I've met some of the Gensler folks that worked on its adaptive reuse 15or-so years ago and my partner lived 2 blocks away there last year... I walked by it a few times a week and I love me some art deco!!!!!
Thanks again for the video. Great message and I agree all day.
Thanks for your support! Much love for the Architects Building ❤️
You probably didn’t have this idea in your mind when making this video, but I think you produced a high quality advertorial for this project! It’s consistent with your project quality & restores some dignity to marketing.
After doing some research on your row house project, I’m hopeful you will eventually do a mini documentary on that one too, especially with what you learned from the NFT process. I don’t think NFTs are dead, but I need more perspectives, especially from people who experienced it, & the fad aftermath. Something to produce in your new home studio?
Thanks for your comment. NFTs are largely misunderstood by the public, and I would like to comment on this sometime. Unfortunately people have a knee jerk reaction to "NFT" as the term as been synonymous with scams, but in terms of artists sharing their work, there is great possibility. I like the analogy to selling prints. People are not buying the paper / ink, which is relatively inexpensive, they are buying for the value of the image. The paper represents a tiny percentage of what they are paying for, so its not too much different to have 0 physical product, and pay entirely for the value of the image, and the verifiable ownership the blockchain provides.
Architecture is probably my favorite art form, and your pictures are such great representations of some great examples. Your book is on my Christmas list!
I agree! It is also a beautifully functional art form, that is why I pursued the field. Thanks for your support, hope the book is under the tree!
This is a fantastic presentation Chris I just love it
Thank you!
I always have loved Art Deco and i want to get your book when I have some extra money for sure. I love old architecture, and your book is right up my alley. I totally agree with you about the big glass boxes.They are boring except for the fact they reflect sunsets and other nice reflective images. Other than that boring. I would absolutely love to see tall big buildings go back to that art deco, look. I've always loved the schools out there that were in the Art Deco Design too. P s nice to see that you included that building in rochester, new york with the weird wing top. I lived in that area most of my life except for 3 years ago and that building is pretty famous around there. Love your book love your channel!❤
I passed by Buffalo City Hall everyday for 6 years on my commute to college, never knew how beautiful it truly was. Thank you
It is one of my favorites across the whole USA. Truly nothing like it inside and out.
I love architecture! I look like a tourist wherever I go b/c I’m always looking up at the buildings. I love art deco but also find beauty in some of the modern designs. I think architecture may be like fashion. History repeats itself. Bell bottoms were “in” in the 1970s and then reappeared reimagined as boot cut in the late 90s/early 2000s. I think ornamentation on buildings will do the same - reappear reimagined, based on updated technology, evolving design concepts, etc.
Totally agree! I am often confused for a tourist in Philly where I've lived for a decade! Keep looking up
Everyone in Central Ohio feels like they somehow own part of the Lincoln-LeVeque Tower here in Columbus, Ohio, U.S. Born 73 years ago 50 miles east in Zanesville and now residing in Dublin a few miles NE. It has always been my skyscraper. Now, if I had the funds, I could buy a beautiful condo there... At this point, I don't see that happening. But I'll still admire it from afar!
That is one of my favorites as well! Have you seen the original ornamentation that was removed from the building? Not sure where it ended up, but you can see it in old photos, and there is a model of the building in the lobby that shows the original sculptures on the building. They were crazy!
@@ChrisHytha As I understand...The statues near the top of the building were later removed due to structural and safety concerns.
When standing on the ground looking up, the LeVeque Tower looks big. When face-to-face with the two-story tall winged-figures at the corners of the building, one quickly realizes the building is BIG. Although the building has Art Deco touches, mainly in its interior, classical references are the dominant ornament on the exterior. These include rondelles with helmeted figures in profile and the date of 1925 in Roman numerals, and fasces with double-bladed axes at the corner octagonal turrets. Amazingly, even larger ornamental pieces have been removed from the building. The 26-foot tall statuary groups at the 39th floor on the four sides of the building, each depicting a man embracing children, and eagles perched at the 34th floor at each corner are no longer in place. The ornamental terra cotta was created by Chicago sculptor Fritz Albert, the chief modeler of the Northwestern Terra Cotta Company. verticalaccessllc.wordpress.com/2012/04/25/the-faces-of-leveque-tower/
i lived in sf for a few years and it was so great to see and experience a lot of unique architecture. another thing a lot of these older buildings will have are murals and mosaics which are absolutely stunning to see in person. i don't live in a city that has too many tall building anymore but i would love so see even some more modestly sized structures with more character.
I know nothing about architecture, but for me, Art Deco is the perfect combination of modern and ornamental styles of old.
Here in Argentina there are some buildings in that style, but very few.
Visiting skyscrapers like the Empire State Building was a unique experience I hope I get the chance to do again soon.
The interiors of buildings like the ESB are especially amazing too. I visited Buenos Aires earlier this year and got to see some of the skyscrapers there up close.
@@ChrisHytha cool! Hope you liked my country!
I bought it! Can’t wait to get it.
Thanks for your support! The book is expected to ship later this week!
Fabulous job designing the images you have produced a beautiful homage to the Artdeco period. I wish you well with the venture.
Thank you for your support!
I really enjoyed this video, I'll be buying your book right away.
Thank you for your support!
I definitely agree with you on replacing huge glass box. Buildings with art deco, designs for future urban construction. I also am enjoying your series on the rehab of your home in Philadelphia. You’re a very creative, intelligent, gent. I look forward to following you in the future.
Thanks for your support! Sorry for the filler episode, next Monday will be back to the usual programming. Very excited about the intro to next week's video. Its a doosy
I know LaVeck Tower. It's a beauty and tells me I'm home. Come to Biltmore in Asheville, NC. You will really like it...take all the behind the scenes tours.
I went to Asheville to document one building, I've always wanted to see Biltmore!
Really enjoyed this video! Loved the images and appreciated you telling us how you created the pictures. Every university architecture library should have a copy of your book!
Thanks for your support, and thanks for watching!
I find this fascinating. I think my interest in architecture comes from trips to Glasgow city centre when young, with my Mother telling me to "look up" to see the carvings on the buildings. They're not of the scale shown here and many are older but thought provoking and lovely nonetheless.
It's an odd juxtaposition to see traditional sandstone with fantastic stonemasonry next to glass and steel boxes in places.
Love your work, can't wait to get my copy of your book.
Beautiful work, Chris and a great idea. I had no idea there were 100 art deco buildings in the US. Very interesting video.
Thank you! And there are many more than 100, but these are my favorites. They are across nearly every US city!
My partner and I have been loving the coffee table book Chris! It's been a great conversation starter with friends too! This video is a great recap of the history of art deco and the awesome project you and Mark pulled off !
By the way, you mentioned some well executed contemporary skyscraper designs by SHoP Architects in NYC, I'm curious to hear your thoughts on the designs of Robert A.M. Stern's firm which are attempting to emulate art deco directly 🤔
Are there enough examples of "neo-deco" or "echo-deco" for a sequel? 👀
Thanks for supporting the project! Love to hear that it is starting good conversations. I like Stern's designs, and mission generally of course! I do think they might be too direct of the past. I imagine a new style inspired by deco, but that takes advantage of new tech, and looks visually different enough to know its modern, like the couple examples I showed. Stern's designed almost look like they could be old, and feel almost disingenuous in that way.
It's interesting how controversial RAMSA is within the architecture world, but it makes sense as we are still largely within the modernist paradigm. I also personally tend to like his work, or at the very least I appreciate the respect for context and regional/local vernacular within the designs. Whether they are disingenuous is also a fascinating question to me. Was 18th century neo-classical architecture disingenuous because it referenced ancient Roman and Greek vernacular? Is the Chicago Tribune building disingenuous for referencing medieval Gothic styles? Maybe these RAMSA buildings just need a good patina and in time we'll see them differently. But I broadly agree with your assessment that with innovation in material manufacturing, we are primed for a "neo-art deco" revival soon!
Keep up the great work as always!
Jump scare of Rochester, MN 😅 That's where I'm from!
Minnesota is abbreviated 'MN' - 'MS' is Mississippi ... but the buildings are gorgeous
Oops! My mistake
I absolutely love this book, and would love to get a copy, as a UK resident, the $50.00 delivery is a very big ouch, but I am coming round slowly. It looks incredible, and I definitely think it is a wonderful compulation of some of the greatest building in the State, and a very important historical reference . Well done
Thank you for the kind words. I understand the issue with costly shipping, but unfortunately as a heavy, oversize book, that is just what it costs. Perhaps if you know anyone traveling to the USA they could have it shipped here, and bring it back to the UK
Pre-ordered the book, and shared it to one of my Discords that has an architectury channel, hopefully that kicks back a decent chunk of pre-orders!
I appreciate your support! The books will ship later this week
I think modern buildings are more function over form and a bland box is much, much cheaper to build. But yes, to go back to some Deco style would be a vast improvement. .The Paris Metro stations are a beutiful example of Deco at its best, but low level and not skyscrapers.
I think there is a way to maintain the better function of modern buildings, while adding ornamentation in an affordable why with advancements in manufacturing like CNC. It will still be more expensive, so we would need the larger architectural taste of society to shift back to enjoying this fine detail in buildings
During the era of Art Deco, most of the corporate money building high rises was in the mid-west and eastern cities. On the west coast, there are a few examples, but my taste, the post-modern movement with architects like Frank Gehry and Michael Graves are equally striking. Disney Concert Hall or the Portland Building come to mind. San Diego had a post-modern shipping mall, The Horton Plaza, that was recently demolished due lack of maintenance and by the death of shopping malls in general.
LA has a handful of deco, but they are all shorter because of the hight limit. Of course they have city hall too which is a great deco tower. SF got a bit more in the way of corporate deco towers.
Planned obsolescence is what changed everything from “well built, meant to last forever” to “make it fast, make it simple, make it disposable”.
I hope that can change. The architectural industry is very committed to making buildings greener, and often times reusing an old building is the most sustainable option. Making buildings today that can last 100-200 years is the next best thing.
@ Right after the National Historic Preservation Act was passed in 1966, there were tax incentives to do just that. In the 70s, there were many projects going on. Then they just seemed to end abruptly. I have no idea why.
I think that the same thoughts shared here regarding the outside of the buildings could also be applied to the interiors. My favorite Art Deco building interior is the Koppers Building in Pittsburgh. The Empire State Building is right in there, but the lobby of the Koppers Building is pretty sweet.
I love that lobby too. I especially love the elevator doors. They are always unique in deco bldgs, and take little motifs from the exterior design to create a holistic experience.
I agree about our loss of ornamentation. San Diego still has a few. The county administration building downtown and Balboa Park. I would love to see the ornamentation of the Art Deco era brought back but not as an imitation but with a modern spin. Color, texture, materials, carvings. I love terracotta and glazed tiles. I am horrified the Bonwit Teller friezes were destroyed for really no reason at all.
soo beautiful 🔥
have you ever seen old city hall and the scientology building in downtown santa ana?
Saying that tastes in architecture simply change overlooks the deeper reasons behind these shifts. Architectural styles evolve not just because of aesthetic whims but as reflections of collective values, priorities, and ideals held by society. For example, Gothic cathedrals expressed a community’s dedication to transcendence and spirituality, while postmodern architecture embodies values like innovation. Each style responds to cultural, social, and economic forces, making architecture a material expression of what society values at a given time rather than merely a trend that comes and goes. Bad architecture is a symptom of a society that has lost touch with the idea of "telos" - and none of us are better off for it. Go to Church on Sunday. Read classical books. Love your spouse and raise strong children. Our skylines will look better.
That is a good point. As I mentioned in the video, Deco perfectly embodies the culture of the 1920s, and I need to take a more critical look at how a reinterpretation of the style would properly represent culture today. I think my best rational is in the advancements of manufacturing and even AI. I love how 3D printing buildings entirely changes how we go about design and ornamentation, as right angles are no longer helpful to cost, and ornamentation can be implemented with a few lines of code and 0 extra cost. Not that we will 3d print skyscrapers any time soon, but the hope is that eventually detail does not equal too much added cost.
@ChrisHytha Without a doubt! I'm loving your videos.
I hope, I can get my local libary here in Denmark to acquire your book, as I would really love to flip through!
This summer I went to Barcalona with my husband and we saw Gaudis house. It made my trip to Barcelona. Love the details in his work :)
Fantastic work! I don't hate the glass boxes (and even like Brutalism) but would rather prefer a more varied style across cities. Art Deco is definitely impressive but having to photograph the top also shows how they were built as ivory towers where the most impressive ornamentation is not within the reach of those at the base. A "Neo Art Deco" could make this more equitable and inculcate the best ornamentation at the street level instead, contributing more to the streetscape.
Will definitely be getting the book!
ive been obsessed with ornamentation and the storytelling through style, this book ticks all my boxes. the glass boxes would be fine if they werent so god damn dainty and synthetic feeling. i love the monumental safety of brutalism, but i also love the psychedelic adornments of art nouveau. art deco still had some romance.
If only we got more Art Nouveau skyscrapers! Many of the deco ones are inspired by natural forms like Nouveau though.
@@ChrisHytha I think we will see the warmth from classical ornamentation combined with the parameter generated hadid-like structures for more art nouveau-like skyscrapers in the future.
@@arasharfa Can't wait for that future!
yeah dude
It would be great if they brought back art deco building but the extravagance that led up to the Great Depression soured people and coupled with new no nonsense building technologies keeps them forever in the past unfortunately. Great video, thank you
Thanks for your comment. Deco and the Depression are unfortunately linked
I think you need to consider how the City Beautiful Movement of the early part of the 20th century influenced skyscraper design. The CB movement combined philosophy and gracefulness into public spaces - parks, monuments, and buildings, with the idea that things in public should be appealing to look at, not just functional.
Thanks very much for the quick overview on how you constructed the pictures. As a photographer, I would love to see a more detailed explanation, as it's very inspiring for us creators.
I have not read up too much on the City Beautiful movement, but I need to. That idea of the value of a beautiful building is hard to quantify, how can our buildings make up more proud of a place, and a community.
Continuously impressed by your multidisciplinary skillset - and what you don't know you seem to just dive into and learn to get it done. Imagining what went into testing for the drone photography, figuring out the proper focal lengths for the 'gigapixel' type scans, figuring out proper angles for the background plates, competently flying and photographing using the drone in limited time windows (while also grabbing video shots for future use), the logistics of coordinating with government entities, illustrator, photoshop, layout, printing, graphic design, architecture, construction, videography, editing, storytelling, and presentation? ridiculous. someday somebody will give you a budget to accomplish what you are really capable of.
I appreciate the kind words, and thank you for really seeing what went into this project. Took a lot of skill sets and a lot of time! Some skills I had from school, and some new skills I needed to develop. Very proud of the project.
You can have the same discussion on ornamentation on a smaller scale, just look at railings or doors now compared to the art deco period. Are you considering having some smaller scale ornamentation on your renovation?
I read somewhere there is a good argument to build with more stone again for environmental reasons as well as aesthetics.
Yes, I definitely plan to integrate a lot of small scale ornamentation, specifically in my own custom design and fabrication for things like an art deco inspired mantel piece, column enclosure, light fixtures, etc. I have a 3d printer, and I want to get a laser cutter or CNC to bring back ornamentation affordably in my own home.
*cries in converting Dollar to Real* i'd love to have this book one day, amazing work!
Have you been to Fair Park in Dallas? Not skyscrapers but an impressive collection of Art Deco buildings and exhibition halls
To your point, the Power and Light building in Kansas City was meant to be a dual tower but the great depression hit and was never completed, which is why one side is a flat wall.
In the last few years I've noticed myself looking at the older buildings here in europe and looking across the street and seeing a glass box and really questioning why on earth did we change.
I wish it was a viable option to build my own huise and bring some of this back to life.. maybe.. someday..
I've loved Art Deco since I was quite young and have collected objects of the 20's/30's for years. The details of the buildings from this era are simply jaw-dropping, but sadly in the world of today more people look down at a phone than up at the world around them. I'll never forget my first trip to Chicago and seeing the Carbide & Carbon Building. WOW! On a side note, it bothers me what people label "Art Deco" today, which includes a lot of tacky mid-century items from the 50's and 60's. They are not even close to the aesthetics of true art deco objects!
Maybe if we build a world that people want to look at they will stop looking at their phone! Part of my idea with the book is to help people see, and realize the beauty all around us if you just look up!
Honestly I like your analysis and argument for incorporating ornamentation. It goes beyond it just looks good and into the how and why. I also want to add to your section about modernism. Modernism does tell a story but its usually about how the building was made celebrating the “craftsmen” of the time in a different way. A lot of modernist details are “ornamental” just to show the structure in a better light. For example a mies corner that has no function at all other than to tell the story of how the building was made.
I also want to add to your analysis of why we should bring back ornamentation. Not only can we make it cost effective through cnc and digital design, but there are also giant teams of designer on hand who could solely focus on this ornamentation-story telling level of design. With modern structural design these details could exist separately from buildings and it could be a lucrative business to propose these to glass projects looking for cultural relevance
Thanks for your addition to the conversation. I agree with what you said about modernism. There is craftsmanship in good detailing, even in minimal detailing, and there are firms now doing incredible work creating iconic buildings through thoughtful details, and I value this in the same way as the more blatant ornamentation. And I like your last note of designers who could specialize in this, it of course would be another line item for a developer, but if ornate details could bring a building more media and press / public support, it might be worth the expense.
Honestly this I could get behind, although I'm not sure what code would drive for impacts
I've seen a number of buildings in the UK which have the ground level modernized to a standard storefront, but first floor and up externally have the historic facade. It's a shame that the cost of doing something like that here in the US is likely prohibitive.
There are a lot of gilded age homes (mansion compared to today but like 8-10 room house) in New England, lot of which get converted to apartments. Preserves the buildings, sorta, though I've seen more than a few lost to confirmed arson unfortunately (also not sure how large the apartments end up being depending on the house)
CHRIS WHAT IS THIS BUILDING I LOVE IT 5:10
That is the Baltimore Trust Building in Baltimore! I love it too
Dude how do you make all your photos in the book and thumbnails look so good
Before getting into UA-cam I refined my style of Photography for nearly a decade! The answer is lots of Photoshop to create these very intentional images
Hey Chris! I'm enjoying your content. Thanks for creating and sharing.
Just wanted to share a quick note: I find your audio volumes to be a bit all over the map ranging from inaudible dialogue to screaming loud music. While I'm watching I'm constantly adjusting my volume.
I look forward to seeing an improvement as you continue to produce. Please feel free to reach out if you want any advice on software or other tools/tips to help in this process. Cheers!
I agree the deco building is more pleasing to view.
From a design standpoint of maximum height, weight of structure, ability to move in wind or seismic activity, can a building be built of material that was used in the 20’s or are current engineering, budget and tenant requirements the reason for the current glass towers?
The buildings in the 20s were essentially the same construction method today, steel frame with cladding, instead of glass curtain wall they just used stone and terracotta in places, but it is not structural, just like the glass is not structural today. Tenant requirements of more light and flexibility is the main thing, but that can be achieved while still adding ornamentation. Big thing is cost...
Video idea: walk us through an entire city architecturally, start with Philly! you could do oldest-newest or least favorite-favorite.
Would be cool! Might need some more filler segments while waiting for permits
I've been following your Rowhome renovation series and have heard you plug your book a few times. I've been wondering how you composite and edit the skyscraper photos, so it's nice to get the breakdown!
Thanks for your support! Happy to share some insight on the project. Back to the usual content next Monday!
Not Art Deco or a skyscraper but lookup Crossness Pumping Station, a stunning example of what the Victorians got up to!
And I believe it's not the only example :)
Sheeeesh that is stunning! I love Deco, but my thesis is really more on bringing back that sense of craftsmanship, and human influence that sleek modern design doesn't offer. Love this example
recently finished richard sennetts book, the craftsman, it's a pretty interesting read for anyone interested in that, though more on sociological side of things
Amazing work and vision to complete such a project. Any plans of adding Finland as a shipping destination? 😄
I just added Finland as a shipping option! It is flat rate $50 for international shipping (it's a heavy book)
You should check out the The Fitzroy in NY. It’s an amazing deco building that was just built.
I know of it, very cool
Can't see the details from the street. So who are they really for; a guy with a drone?
Can't see them in detail, but you know they are there. For me looking up and seeing the texture and detail up there sparks my imagination. Also, for neighboring buildings, and the people looking out the windows at the city.
Depending on the city you can also see it from elevated public transit, or from neighboring buildings. At least this is the case in Chicago: I love looking out the window on my commute and seeing all the detail. Sure there's a lot on the crowns of the buildings I can't see beyond a guilded glisten. But there's plenty on lower floors too as I roll past on the El. Same even looking across from some of the buildings I've been in, looking over at other buildings you can see sculptural reliefs and designs.
Chris, I too share your love for Deco! And I want your book! Where can I get it? ❤
Thank you! You can get it at highrisescollection.com
If you can find a patron who will pay to build such a building, YOU can bring an updated version of Art Deco back!
That is my long term goal! I already got one commission to design a deco inspired building. Just a concept for a developer right now, but perhaps it could be built down the road. Looking for more commissions
Just a heads up "MN" is Minnesota. "MS" is Mississippi. ;)
My mistake!!
Driving through lower Manhattan and looking at the new glass boxes I wonder about the design being an expression of the engineering that enable them to look like they are defying gravity, for example the Jenga tower building. They seem to be showing off to my mind. And what do you think of the buildings with plants on their outer walls?
I agree that at the high end, "Glass Box" towers are expressive and iconic in their own way, and the good ones do include some level of unique detailing that sets them apart. As for plant buildings, it seems they never quire work out.