Built by architects for architects, this site is "a place for architects to research and see good, up-to-date examples of projects and architectural products. So we decided to build it."

Highlights content related to architecture and man-made habitats and infrastructures, including monuments, buildings and their interiors, land and cityscapes. Designs are presented in plans, drawings, and models, and structures are recorded in archival and contemporary photographs and 360-degree virtual reality panoramas.

Explores the history and architecture of many of Columbia College's buildings.

Resources for practicing architects, directories to architects, firms, and their web pages, and links to Chicago architecture sites

ArchDaily serves as a weblog for inspiration and knowledge to assist architects in building better cities. Chicago architectural news, projects, products, events, interviews,competitions, opinion pieces, and more are featured.

Information about Chicago landmarks and the people who designed them. Site includes a searchable database of landmark buildings, an architectural style guide, biographies of architects and much more.

Dedicated to advancing public interest and education in architecture and related design. Sponsors programs designed to enhance the public's awareness and appreciation of Chicago's outstanding architectural legacy.

From skyscrapers to bungalows, the Museum houses an extensive collection of architectural drawings from the 1870s, as well as architecture-related documents, photographs, models, and building fragments that reflect metropolitan Chicago’s built environment and the creative output of Chicago’s premier and lesser-known architectural firms.

Protects and revitalizes Chicago’s irreplaceable built history. Features endangered architecture, trending news and upcoming events.

From boutique mansions to historic renovations, discover a few of downtown Chicago's historic hotels.

Oral histories documenting the life experiences of architects who shaped the physical environment in Chicago and surrounding communities.

Public Records Section
121 N. LaSalle St, Room 900/1109

Floor plans of Chicago buildings for your class assignment may possibly be obtained under the Freedom of Information Act from the City of Chicago, Department of Buildings. You can also check the web site of the building or architecture firm associated with the building. Contacting the realtor that represents the building may also be a possibility.

Please note: A Freedom of Information Request Form must be completed for floor plans and the request may be denied for security purposes.

Trace the history of the Sears Tower from the initial plans to the company's financial troubles of the 1990s to the tower's status as a multi-tenant office building and major tourist attraction.

Oral histories documenting the life experiences of architects who shaped the physical environment in Chicago and surrounding communities.