Intro to The Chicago Architecture Foundation

The Chicago Architecture Foundation is a leading organization in architecture and design and is considered a model for similar institutions around the world. They offer a wealth of programs and tours for all ages. 

see more at http://www.architecture.org

The CAF is located on South Michigan Avenue in the historic Sante Fe Building, designed by Daniel Burnham. It's in walking distance from the Art Institute of Chicago and Millenium Park.

The CAF highlights Chicago's diverse architecture and design through a multitude of lectures, exhibits and educational programs. These include the Loop Walking Tour-a two-hour daily tour that explores the national landmarks downtown and the CAF Architecture River Cruise which offers a river's eye view of the city and highlights more than 50 historic sites along the Chicago River.

The CAF offers a broad range of educational programs, field trips,family programs and unfortunately for me, teacher workshops over the summer.

Chicago Model City is the only accurate and up-to-date three-dimensional portrait of Chicago's downtown. This 320-square-foot work-in-progress became an instant icon when it opened in 2009, beloved by tourists and locals alike. It has become the centerpiece for exhibitions in the Chicago Architecture Foundation’s atrium gallery.

Plymouth Tower seen below is one of many future proposals for the city, designed to create family friendly high rise living.

Many families leave the city for the suburbs in search of good schools, affordable homes, open spaces and a sense of community. In order to reverse the trend Plymouth Tower aims to make the Loop a more appealing neighbourhood for raising children.
The building consists of vertical neighborhoods, outdoor gardens transforming traditional corridors into residential streets in the sky.