![]() ![]() The difficulty with a traditional, podium-lifted high-rise design is that its omnidirectional approach can confuse patrons about where one should enter. However, it is not the modernist high rises that exemplify design for people-it’s the entry canopy. Two towers inspired by Miesian architecture stand proudly at 205 and 225 North Michigan Avenue. If we consider our environment a stage, the city skyline is the backdrop, and Cloud Gate is the ultimate prop for this show. Standing in the plaza, you can see people from all walks of life smiling, enjoying a few rays of sunshine on a chilly day, and being human together. Instead, it is how much this simple design brings people together. What brings me joy about Cloud Gate is not just its friendly, caricature-like shape or the Instagram-worthy selfie opportunity it provides. The work reflects the city and its people in a new and distorted perspective that challenges how we see ourselves and each other. While Cloud Gate lives as a piece of art and architecture for people to look at, its dual purpose is quite extraordinary. Informally known as “the bean,” Cloud Gate sits near the entrance to Millennium Park. Cloud GateĬloud Gate is the first and most famous example of this. It is not the creation of architecture that necessarily screams “look at me” but instead celebrates humanity.Īs I walked around the city, I caught many examples of design for people in real-time. To me, “design for people” means creating architecture that meets a human need and sets the stage for people to live out their lives. I can think of few American cities that instill such inspiration through human-based architecture.Īfter a short ride on the L that takes me past some of my favorite memories, a quick check-in at the hotel, and a power nap, I’m ready for adventure. We brought Manchester University to dream and be inspired for the addition and renovation of their Fort Wayne Health Science Campus that we have the honor of designing. We came to Chicago to visit “The Mart”-home to arguably the greatest collection of commercial furniture manufacturers under one roof. The crisp December air greets my face as my long wool coat hugs me. I travel a quarter mile through the tunneled maze of the airport and exit. I quickly glance at the signs toward “Ground Transport” and view my phone to check the schedule. It is my 63rd plane ride in a year full of exciting adventures with clients. Although a short trip, it was an impactful one that further emphasized my appreciation of BHDP's promise-we design for people. Flashback to the end of 2022 and join me as I recount my last work trip of the year.
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