Which architectural style is primarily associated with the Chicago School?

The Chicago School is primarily associated with the Commercial style, which emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in Chicago. This architectural style is characterized by the use of steel-frame construction, large plate glass windows, and a focus on function and utility, reflecting the needs of a growing urban environment and economy. Buildings from this period often feature simplified forms and less ornamentation compared to earlier styles.

The Commercial style aligns with the innovations of architects such as Louis Sullivan and Daniel Burnham, who emphasized the verticality and steel structure of skyscrapers. Their designs often incorporated a clear differentiation between the base, middle, and top of the building, which enhanced the functional quality while still achieving an aesthetic that was distinctly modern for its time. This style directly contributed to the development of the high-rise office building, making it integral to Chicago's architectural identity.

The other styles, while important in their own right, do not share the same defining characteristics or historical context related to the Chicago School, making Commercial style the most fitting association.