The Rookery was built in 1888 by the architectural partnership of Daniel H. Burnham and John Wellborn Root , known as Burnham and Root . In the architectural boom that followed the Great Chicago Fire , architects in what would become known as the Chicago School of commercial architecture competed with each other to create the world 's first true skyscrapers . By mixing modern building techniques , such as metal framing , fireproofing , elevators and plate glass , together with traditional ones , such as brick facades and elaborate ornamentation , Burnham and Root sought to create a bold architectural statement . At the same time , they intended their buildings to be commercially successful . This building is one of the few results of their partnership that is still standing
Great Chicago Fire
Great Chicago Fire
Rookery Building