What is a common architectural feature of the Chicago School style?

The Chicago School style, prominent in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is characterized by its emphasis on functionality and the use of new materials and construction techniques. One of the defining features of this architectural style is its stocky and rectangular forms, which convey a sense of solidity and strength. This characteristic is particularly evident in the design of commercial buildings that prioritize verticality and mass due to the use of steel-frame construction.

The rectangular shapes also allowed architects to maximize the use of available space and emphasize the horizontal and vertical lines that are typical in Chicago School skyscrapers. The compact, robust proportions highlighted the emerging urban landscape of Chicago, distinguishing it from other architectural movements that may have favored more ornamental or elaborate designs. Such features are essential in understanding how the Chicago School revolutionized skyscraper architecture and paved the way for modernist trends.