Chicago Model City July 17, 2009

How does a city as vast and complex as Chicago take shape? What are the consequences--intended and unintended--of urban planning? What challenges do planners face? Beyond its reputation as a global metropolis featuring world-renowned architecture, Chicago enjoys special status: it is a model for understanding all cities. Enormous size, diverse population, booming industry, and complex infrastructure have made Chicago emblematic of modern life. Urban planners, sociologists, and historians have studied Chicago more than any other American city. In recognition of the Plan of Chicago centennial celebration, the Chicago Architecture Foundation presents 'Chicago Model City.' The exhibition considers the philosophy of "thinking big" by examining historic and contemporary urban plans of all sizes. 'Chicago Model City' includes photographs, maps, videos, digital visualizations, and a large-scale model of Chicago's Loop--designed to be a permanent attraction and centerpiece of CAF.